Decentralized Blockchain-Powered Platforms Can Protect Artists Against Censorship
Cointelegraph: Do you think censorship is a problem many artists have to deal with?
Jeremy Kauffman: Anyone who relies on the mainstream platforms ought to be concerned about how vulnerable they are. They could wake up and have their content removed or demonetized, even if it's for things that are entirely unobjectionable, like suicide prevention (YouTube monetized videos that talk about preventing suicide).
CT: How does LBRY solve this for content creators?
JK: LBRY is entirely decentralized and open-source, so there's no Google or Facebook that can unilaterally change the rules, nor is there a central point for governments or others to interfere.
CT: Are you at all worried that "too little censorship" can get out of hand and allow hate speech to proliferate?
JK: I would quote Brandeis: “The remedy to be applied is more speech, not enforced silence.” If there is ugliness, let it be in the sunlight where it can be bleached, not hidden so that people can cry censorship.
CT: What kinds of content creators do you see joining LBRY? Is it mostly people impressed by the new tech, or people looking for a way around censorship?
JK: All types! LBRY is about directly connecting creators with consumers and cutting out rent-seeking middlemen. We already have a Hollywood studio committed - you can download a David Cross and Julia Stiles film via LBRY.
CT: In general, do you see the media world moving towards more free speech, or more restricted speech?
JK: Over a long arc, towards more free speech. Over the last 5-10 years...not so much.
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