Точка Синхронізації

Attorneys representing major technology conglomerates including Meta, TikTok, and Snap Inc. are preparing to present opening arguments this week in Los Angeles Superior Court for a landmark trial concerning the alleged role of social media in fueling a youth mental health crisis. Judge Carolyn Kuhl is presiding over the proceedings, which aim to determine if these platforms were intentionally designed with addictive features that have caused documented psychological harm to children across the United States. This trial marks a critical moment in legal history as it tests whether tech giants can be held liable for product liability despite federal laws that traditionally shield them from content-related litigation. The litigation stems from hundreds of consolidated lawsuits filed by school districts and families who contend that platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok use sophisticated algorithms to exploit the neurobiology of young users. Plaintiffs argue that the companies prioritize engagement metrics and advertising revenue over the safety of minors, leading to widespread issues such as body dysmorphia, sleep deprivation, and severe anxiety. Legal experts suggest that this case could mirror the historic proceedings against the tobacco and pharmaceutical industries, potentially forcing a radical shift in how social media interfaces are developed and regulated. In their defense, the social media companies are expected to rely heavily on Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which provides immunity to digital platforms for third-party content. They claim to have implemented numerous safety tools, such as parental controls and age-verification measures, to protect younger audiences. However, the prosecution targets the underlying design of the applications—such as infinite scroll and push notifications—arguing these are defective features rather than protected speech. The outcome of this trial in Los Angeles will likely set a massive legal precedent for dozens of similar cases pending in both state and federal courts nationwide.