Sam Lessin: Full free speech cannot safely coexist with online anonymity
Sam Lessin · #62: Telegram, Free Speech and Its Limits · More or Less Podcast · Aug 30, 2024 · at 33:21
Sam Lessin (Slow Ventures) argues that digital platforms must require identity verification and real accountability if they are to permit unrestricted free speech.
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“I think to Britt's point, you can't have full free speech and anonymity. I actually think that's too dangerous, right? Like for the reason you're talking about, especially as we get into the bot world and AI or whatever. So like, the thing I believe in is that you should say whatever you want, but say it in your own voice. You have to stand behind your words, right? And if you're willing to say something and face the consequences of having said it, Great. Go, go nuts. Right. But like, you basically have to choose. If you're going to have anonymous speech, there's a strong argument that if you're going to allow an honest speech, you really can't allow anything to be said. But if you're willing to put your name on it and sign it, you should be able to say whatever the fuck you want.”
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