This podcast features Cass Sunstein discussing free speech on college campuses and the phenomenon of group polarization. The conversation begins with a clarification of the legal differences between public and private universities regarding free speech restrictions. Sunstein argues that private universities should voluntarily adopt First Amendment principles for simplicity and to minimize errors in speech regulation. The discussion then shifts to group polarization, explaining how echo chambers on social media exacerbate political extremism. Finally, Sunstein suggests a nuanced approach to addressing misinformation, focusing on rethinking libel laws and potentially regulating knowingly false and harmful statements while preserving broad free speech protections.
