On February 21st, Paul Gowder professor at the University of Iowa addressed the issue of platform and social media governance inside of the Cellino & Barnes conference room at UB. There was a total of 35 people, ranging from students to policy makers, who attended the event. Individuals gathered in the conference room hungry as there was a great spread of catered food, and beverages. The sun was shining bright through the windows as the event began at approximately noon.
The program was listed on the center’s website, and Gowder’s ongoing work draft was available for the public to print and read prior to attending. The draft was part of the introductory chapter of his book project which attempts to shed light on the user governance problems of internet platforms including Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube. Majority of the room had a printout of the draft which appeared to be marked up with questions, concerns, and feedback.
A queue was created for each individual who wished to speak directly with Gowder in regards to the many issues of platform governance. There was a list of six individuals who had questions and comments. Of the six people only one completely disagreed with Gowders analogies.
Issues discussed during the event include, capacity building, spatial engagement of the internet, how profit motives become a threat to user governance, cancel culture relating to norms, social sanctions, institutions decentralizing, and having state government become involved.
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