Can Content Moderation Sustain Truthful Communication Online?

Profile Picture of - Robin Ng

Robin Ng

Abstract information

In this video, ROBIN NG examines how content moderation affects truthful communication on online platforms like YouTube and Facebook. He develops a theoretical signaling model in which creators balance informational accuracy and entertainment while facing incentives to mislead users. The analysis shows that moderation can enable communication by reducing the effort needed to signal truth, but excessive or insufficient moderation can reduce user welfare or collapse content creation altogether. The video also explores how misinformation, generative AI, and platform business models limit the effectiveness of moderation and may reshape the media landscape.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21036/LTPUB101221

Researcher

Robin Ng is a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Mannheim. His research lies at the intersection of industrial organization, behavioural economics, and microeconomic theory, with a focus on the digital economy, platform design and regulation, digital media, and the economics of AI.

Institution information

University of Mannheim (Universität Mannheim)

The University of Mannheim is frequently cited as the “Harvard of Germany,” primarily due to its world-class reputation in business administration and economics. Centered within the magnificent Mannheim Palace, one of the largest baroque buildings in Europe, the university provides a unique architectural setting for its academic pursuits. It is highly regarded for its research-driven curriculum and strong ties to the corporate sector, consistently ranking as the top German institution for social sciences and business. With a focused profile and a highly international outlook, it remains a premier destination for future leaders in finance, politics, and academia.
University of Mannheim (Universität Mannheim)
Cover Photo of - University of Mannheim (Universität Mannheim)

Original Publication

Moderating Content-Hosting Platforms

Citation

Robin Ng, 

Latest Thinking, 

Can Content Moderation Sustain Truthful Communication Online?, 

https://doi.org/10.21036/LTPUB101221

Credits:

© Robin Ng 

and Latest Thinking

This work is licensed under CC-BY 4.0