Should TikTok be Banned in the U.S.?

As the popularity of the social media app TikTok continues to rise, some individuals and organizations in the United States are calling for a ban on the platform due to concerns about data privacy and national security. However, we firmly believe that a ban on TikTok is not the best course of action for the U.S. government.

First and foremost, a ban on TikTok would be a significant violation of freedom of speech and expression. The app has become an essential platform for individuals to share their creativity, connect with others, and express themselves in unique ways. Banning the app would deprive these individuals of a vital outlet for self-expression and creativity, which is not something that should be taken lightly.

And while there are legitimate concerns about data privacy, there is no evidence that TikTok has misused or mishandled user data. TikTok has already taken significant steps to address these concerns by implementing new privacy policies, increasing transparency, and establishing a U.S.-based data center. The platform has also undergone numerous independent security audits to ensure the safety and privacy of its users' data.

Furthermore, a ban on TikTok could have significant economic consequences, particularly for the many small businesses that rely on the platform for advertising and marketing. The app has become an essential tool for businesses looking to reach a younger demographic and has helped many small businesses grow and thrive. A ban could severely impact these businesses — particularly those that rely heavily on the app.

In conclusion, a ban on TikTok would not only infringe on the freedom of speech and expression but it could also have significant economic consequences for small businesses. While concerns about data privacy and national security should not be ignored, it is important to recognize the steps that TikTok has taken to address these concerns. Rather than a ban, a collaborative approach between TikTok and the U.S. government could ensure that user data is protected while allowing individuals and businesses to continue to benefit from the platform's innovative features and opportunities. As a society, we must strike a balance between data privacy and innovation, and a ban on TikTok would fail to achieve that.

“I think it’s necessary because TikTok’s format has destroyed the attention spans of the entire generation. I also believe social media access for younger generations in the future is a terrible idea due to the effects it had on this one.”

- Sophomore Justin Palazzolo

Student