Progressives should abandon X because it's irredeemably harmful and their presence legitimizes it
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/profile/jonathan-liew. "If you’re still on Elon Musk’s X, ask yourself this: why? | Jonathan Liew | The Guardian." May 28, 2026. www.theguardian.com
The Gist
The author argues that left-leaning people should stop using X because the platform is designed to spread lies and push people toward right-wing views. He says progressives staying on X just helps make the platform look legitimate when it's actually harmful to society.
Conclusion
Progressive users should quit X (formerly Twitter) because continuing to use the platform makes the world measurably worse
Premises
- X's algorithm deliberately promotes controversial and false content to maximize engagement
- Research shows X's 'for you' feed shifts users toward right-wing positions and pro-Russia stances
- The platform is flooded with fake content, disinformation, scams, and bots that are out of control
- Progressive users on X exist as second-class citizens subjected to harassment and racist content
- Continued progressive presence on X provides false legitimacy and balance that allows mainstream media to treat it as representative of public opinion
- Users are not immune to the platform's manipulative effects and gradual radicalization
- Alternative platforms and the ideal of a digital town square have failed to materialize
Assumptions
- Social media platforms significantly influence users' political views and behavior
- Progressive voices leaving X would meaningfully damage the platform's legitimacy
- The harm caused by X outweighs any potential benefits of progressive engagement
- Users can effectively resist platform manipulation through conscious choice
- Mainstream media and politicians treat X as a reliable gauge of public opinion