Letter from the Co-Chair

And we have all experienced this change. The technological tools born from the Internet are complex, and challenge incumbent institutions in all corners of society. Parents must balance the benefits of social inclusion for their kids with the dangers platforms pose to mental health; political leaders leverage social media to reach, and sometimes manipulate, their audiences; Americans struggle to understand what is truthful online, all while being sucked into the addictive and polarizing vortex of social media.

It is long past time we act - to protect individual rights and freedom; to protect our public goods and information ecosystem; and, ultimately, to protect democracy. This final report is a culmination of our research and findings over the last two years. We hope the content contributes to the rich dialogue surrounding digital platform governance and helps us move from conversation to action.

Sincerely,

NancyGibbs

LombardDirectoroftheShorensteinCenterand EdwardR.MurrowProfessorofthePracticeof Press,PoliticsandPublicPolicy