Does the marketplace of ideas work?

The 'marketplace of ideas' theory argues that truth is found where opinions intersect. It is the figurative arena in which all can share their opinions, subjecting them to rational, public debate. In the same way that quality goods and services rise to the top in a free market economy, so this theory sees ideas as subject to the same rigorous competition. Popular ideas are considered "truths" insofar as they rise on the back of reason. These truths are essential for society to progress. Does the marketplace of ideas work?

Yes, the marketplace of ideas works

The marketplace theory is now a pillar of first amendment jurisprudence. A laissez-faire marketplace of ideas is essential in any liberty-minded society.

The marketplace of ideas has a clear legal significance

The marketplace of ideas has been used in countless legal cases to defend free speech. The marketplace of ideas has impacted the rules by which we live.

The marketplace of ideas works, but is compromised

Online bias is sabotaging the free exchange of ideas. There is no such thing as impartiality on the internet.

No, the marketplace of ideas does not work

The marketplace of ideas is based on an idealistic conception of society, which means in practice it cannot work.

The marketplace of ideas is now irrelevant

The marketplace of ideas is no longer relevant. The concept served its purpose; to raise the issue of government accountability.

The marketplace of ideas protects and sustains an intellectual oligopoly

An unregulated market of ideas disproportionately benefits a select few. In this way it supports social hierarchy and prevents those at the bottom from changing their circumstances.

The marketplace of ideas assumes an empathetic fallacy

The idea falsely assumes that making emotional arguments is enough to change people's minds on an issue. This is simply incorrect.

The marketplace of ideas has a naive view of social progress

If it worked, society would not repeat its mistakes. That alone is proof that the idea has no legs to stand on.

The marketplace of ideas does not exist

We cannot know whether the marketplace of ideas works because it is a theory that has never been put into practice.

Bias exists in every public forum

No environment exists free from bias. Therefore the very assumption it is based upon is flawed.
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This page was last edited on Tuesday, 21 Jul 2020 at 14:39 UTC