WEIGHTING PRINCIPLES IN THE DIGITAL AGE: AN ANALYSIS OF DWORKIN'S THEORIES ON FAKE NEWS INVESTIGATION

Abstract

This study aims to analyze how the theory of integrity, developed by Ronald Dworkin, can support the actions of the Brazilian Supreme Court (STF) in the context of the Fake News Inquiry, especially with regard to content moderation on digital platforms. The research problem that guides this work is: how Dworkin's theory of integrity can justify the content moderation measures adopted by digital platforms. To this end, a qualitative approach was used, with an inductive method, based on an analysis of legal works between the years 2023 and 2024. The research focused on examining the theory of integrity, evaluating the role of digital platforms in combating disinformation, and critically discussing academic production on the subject. It is concluded that, even though the Fake News Inquiry receives several criticisms for being the target of controversy, it represents a legitimate attempt by the STF to protect democracy as long as its decisions are anchored in consistent and transparent legal foundations. Integrity theory emerges as an instrument capable of guiding content moderation in an increasingly complex digital environment.