Michael Schellenberger

Rank 39 of 47
|
Score -94
9/3/2025, 3:10:58 PM
X
In reply to:
Michael Shellenberger
@shellenberger
·
151d
10. “—we were planning to confidentially disclose some information sought by the NGOs to them in exchange for them dropping the suit”

The NGOs would not settle, despite Twitter’s efforts to cooperate. And so Twitter caved, offering to censor its platform — for all users — in
Michael Shellenberger
@shellenberger
·
151d
9. Macron Leads Censorship Effort

The year 2016 marked an inflection point in the state’s crackdown on online speech. Events like Brexit, Trump’s victory, the Arab Spring, and France’s Yellow Vest movement, organized via social media, convinced elites that “information
Michael Shellenberger
@shellenberger
·
151d
8. CONTEXT: France invented the Censorship Industrial Complex 53 years ago

From royal censors to revolutionary tribunals, Napoleonic decrees to Vichy oppression, France’s history has long been defined by the tug-of-war between censorship and free speech.

France’s 1972 Pleven
Michael Shellenberger
@shellenberger
·
151d
7. “I am not surprised that they are trying now to go back to court and make some public statement…”

Twitter executives knew the timing of the NGOs’ lawsuit was not coincidental.

“From a public policy standpoint,” wrote Audrey Herblin-Stoop, Twitter’s Public Policy Director
Michael Shellenberger
@shellenberger
·
151d
6. “They are concerned that we let users Tweet anonymously”

Following a mediation session with the NGOs on November 7, 2020, Colangelo updated her colleagues: “The NGOs articulated their concerns, which, broadly speaking, are (1) they feel we are not actioning hate speech
Michael Shellenberger
@shellenberger
·
151d
5. “This case is largely about painting Twitter as a dangerous actor in the press.”

Macron’s request for Dorsey’s number appears to be linked with the simultaneous launch of a lawsuit by four French government-linked NGOs against Twitter.

“We were sued back in the spring by

The statement and accompanying emails discuss Twitter's response to a lawsuit regarding hate speech, highlighting concerns about setting precedents and the potential implications of their actions. The tone is cautious and strategic, focusing on legal and public relations considerations.

  1. Principle 1:
    I will strive to do no harm with my words and actions.
    The statement shows an awareness of potential harm by considering the precedent set by their actions, aligning with the principle of doing no harm. [+1]
  2. Principle 2:
    I will respect the privacy and dignity of others and will not engage in cyberbullying, harassment, or hate speech.
    The discussion respects privacy and dignity by handling the matter confidentially and considering the implications of public disclosure. [+1]
  3. Principle 3:
    I will use my words and actions to promote understanding, empathy, and compassion.
    The intent to address hate speech aligns with promoting understanding and compassion, though the focus is more on legal strategy than empathy. [+1]
  4. Principle 4:
    I will engage in constructive criticism and dialogue with those in disagreement and will not engage in personal attacks or ad hominem arguments.
    The internal dialogue reflects constructive criticism and strategic planning, avoiding personal attacks and focusing on policy implications. [+1]