In the first eight threads of The Twitter Files, we explored the various ways in which Twitter has been used to censor, manipulate, and deplatform individuals and groups, and the broader implications of these actions for society. In Thread 9, titled “THREAD 9 THE TWITTER FILES: HOW TWITTER RIGGED THE COVID DEBATE,” the author examines the role of Twitter in the COVID-19 pandemic and the ways in which the platform has been used to censor and manipulate information about the virus.
Through a series of tweets and accompanying documents, the author presents evidence of Twitter’s efforts to censor information that was true but inconvenient to U.S. government policy, discredit doctors and other experts who disagreed with the official narrative, and suppress ordinary users, including some who were sharing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) own data. The thread also raises important questions about the role of social media companies in shaping public discourse and the role of government in manipulating information during a crisis.
Here are some key points covered in Thread 9:
- Twitter’s efforts to censor information that was true but inconvenient to U.S. government policy
- The discrediting of doctors and other experts who disagreed with the official narrative
- The suppression of ordinary users, including some who were sharing the CDC’s own data
- The role of social media companies in shaping public discourse
- The role of government in manipulating information during a crisis
As you read through this thread and the previous threads in The Twitter Files, you will be struck by the depth and nuance of the analysis and the thought-provoking insights that are shared. Whether you are a journalist, a researcher, or simply a concerned citizen, I encourage you to read through the entire series of threads to form your own conclusions about the issues raised. You can access Thread 9 and the other threads in the series at the following link:
https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1607416532669431809?t=WYLMOwOvtCx_obW3XOPbsQ&s=19
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in The Twitter Files are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any organization or individual. The information contained in The Twitter Files is provided for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal, financial, or professional advice. You should always seek the advice of a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the information contained in The Twitter Files.