JOHN JOSHUA G. SORIANO

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science

Isabela State University – Cauayan Campus

Abstract

       This research is created to find out whether there is a distortion of freedom of speech in the virtual world.  The purpose of this study is to gain insights into the disadvantages of too much exercise of freedom of speech in social media. The information needed as to the philosophy of    John Stuart Mill of Freedom of Speech can be found in his book on liberty. The researcher resorted to using qualitative methods, specifically interviews are the best method to be used to have a deeper understanding of why people engage in fake news, trolling and mudslinging. Freedom of expression for Mill’s can be used by an individual or group but it should not be compromised to the point of harming others. The “harm principle” of Mill can be summarized as follows: (a) that everybody should be bound to observe a certain line of conduct towards the rest. (b) That this conduct should consist in not injuring the interests of one another. These two guidelines show how the harm principle works. Social media is not just a platform for communication. It is also a source of news for the public and it also gives political views on social issues and encourages more political participation from the people. But it is unavoidable that the public is more susceptible to fake news and trolling that involves provocative messages and negative campaigning which is one-sided. Results of the study indicated that there is indeed a distortion of freedom of speech through the “harm principle” for it contradicts its main purpose which is harming others.