ohsherrie wrote:Why would users risk losing these websites by acting like gutter scum at best and criminals at worst once they are aware of the consequences.
When you try to make something illegal, (drugs, sex, movies, whatever) it just moves elsewhere.
It's not about average dating-site users suddenly turning into huggy bear pimps overnight.
ohsherrie wrote:I still don't see holding people accountable for illegal behavior as an infringement on freedom of speech.
Entire websites shutting down is not "holding people accountable."
With the exception of the Backpage CEOS, name some people being prosecuted. I'll wait...
ohsherrie wrote:I've never thought the idea of having a completely lawless virtual world was a good idea.
Section 230 of the Communications Act was the law of the land for three decades.
It shielded websites from liability.
Under it, the internet flourished.
There would be NO social media without it.
ohsherrie wrote:If these sites you mentioned would rather shut down than monitor their content so be it.
These sites do monitor their content. In the case of CraigsList, they have a staff of 30.
The site has boards for hundreds of cities with numerous sub-categories.
The idea that every single post will be inspected is completely impractical.
ohsherrie wrote:On the other hand, if users would rather shit in their playground and have it taken away than behave within the law they deserve to lose it.
Again, I don't know what this means.
If by "users" you mean sex workers, I am fine with them using web forums to screen out clients and protect their safety.
ohsherrie wrote:Actually my friend you're beginning to sound a little like Monker with his dire predictions for the results of everything the President does.
And you are starting to sound like a Dick Cheney Neocon.
I would be
against an illegal strike on Syria no matter who is president.
I would be
against internet censorship no matter who is president.
ohsherrie wrote:Did the sporting goods sites shut down when they could no longer direct ship guns?
Sporting good sites don't rely on user-generated content the way forums do. No comparison.
ohsherrie wrote:Places like the Craigslist personals and Backpage were the dark alleys of the slums. Most of the vermin that live there don't last long out in the light with people who don't live in their world.
You're talking about the oldest profession in the world. Banning speech doesn't make it go away. It just drives it from the light back into the streets- and potentially into a neighborhood near you.