Purpose:
The policy paper shows that you understand the goals of freedom of expression, and the harm and offence principles, and how these are used in content regulation in the media. It also shows that you recognise how freedom of expression may compete with equally important values. Use required and recommended readings.
Choose a topic from the list below. Then, use the policy template to analyse the issue.
What are the problems associated with fake news? Should there be laws regarding its distribution?
Compare the legislation regarding safe internet use from Australia and New Zealand. What problems do they address? Are they the best solutions to the problems?
Compare the policies of two social media companies regarding offensive expression and harassment. What processes do they adopt? Which is the most effective?
Compare the policies of two social media companies regarding fake news and the spread of misinformation. What processes do they adopt? Which is the most effective?
Compare two countries’ legislative responses to hate speech. Which do you think is the best means of addressing the problem?
Choose a country’s legislative response to blasphemy or religious vilification. What controversies or debates are associated with the legislation? What would be a better solution?
What issue most concerns you about freedom of speech on the internet? Compare two countries’ legislative responses. Which do you think is the best means of addressing the problem?
