[imagesource:goodfon]

Elon Musk’s X has updated its policies to allow users to post X-rated content, saying it can be a ‘legitimate form of artistic expression.’

Under the updated guidelines, the platform formerly known as Twitter will allow users to share sexualised content so long as it is consensual and clearly labelled.

The revised policy, which was updated over the weekend, states that “users should be able to create, distribute, and consume material related to sexual themes as long as it is consensually produced and distributed”.

“Sexual expression, whether visual or written, can be a legitimate form of artistic expression,” X says.

According to the policy, users will not be permitted to share content that “promotes exploitation, nonconsent, objectification, sexualization or harm to minors, and obscene behaviours.” Children and adult users who opt against seeing graphic material will be restricted from seeing anything to racey.

“We believe in the autonomy of adults to engage with and create content that reflects their own beliefs, desires, and experiences, including those related to sexuality.”

We have launched Adult Content and Violent Content policies to bring more clarity of our Rules and transparency into enforcement of these areas. These policies replace our former Sensitive Media and Violent Speech policies – but what we enforce against hasn’t changed.

Adult…

— Safety (@Safety) June 3, 2024

The change, first reported by TechCrunch, formalises a relatively tolerant attitude towards adult content that pre-dates Musk’s purchase of Twitter in October 2022.

Unlike platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube, Twitter has never expressly banned nudity and sexualised content. Under Musk, X has dramatically scaled back moderation on the platform and reinstated previously banned accounts, including those of controversial figures such as Donald Trump and conspiracy theorist Alex Jones.

Not everyone was happy with the announcement with many saying the site already struggles to manage inappropriate content.

“Are you serious? Everyone asked to remove adult content, not embrace them.”

“XXX NOW? My money is now supporting a porn site? Nope. Can’t do it. I’ll cancel my subscription.”

“I thought we were removing that crap! I don’t want to see it!”

Musk has argued that he is upholding freedom of speech, but critics have accused him of encouraging hate speech and misinformation. Purveyors of porn will now likely be added to the list as well.

This move shouldn’t be so controversial. There is an ‘opt-out’ policy – be an adult and use it.

[source:aljazeera]