Composers like Nicola Piovani, singers like Francesco Guccini and Piero Pelù, as well as the Social Democratic MEP Sandro Ruotolo have recently turned their backs on X.
“Musk is a threat to freedom“
“Elon Musk is a threat to democracy and freedom. In light of Musk’s extremely dangerous, neo-imperialist statements, I have decided to close my profile on X,” announced Pelù, frontman of the Italian rock band Litfiba. “Many tell me that I am crazy for making this decision, but I believe that it is fundamental today to show clear signs of civil resistance,” said the singer.
“It’s time to go,” commented the well-known Roman film music composer Nicola Piovani. EU parliamentarian Ruotolo sees the situation in a similar way. “I have decided to leave prevents me from continuing to be present on X,” emphasized Ruotolo.
Musk: “These judges have to go”
Even the doyen of Italian songwriters, Francesco Guccini, no longer wants to know anything about X (formerly Twitter). “Musk has ideas that are light years away from mine. I have no interest in communicating on a platform that helps manipulate political ideas. I don’t think anyone will miss me on X,” said Guccini.
Musk, who will be responsible for efficient governance under the future US administration under President Donald Trump, got involved on Tuesday in a dispute between the Italian judiciary and the right-wing government of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who is good friends with the richest man in the world is. “These judges have to go,” Musk wrote on
“Toxic media platform”
The reaction came promptly from Italian head of state Sergio Mattarella. “Italy is a great, democratic country and can take care of itself,” Mattarella wrote on Wednesday. Anyone who – like Musk – should take on an “important government function” in a friendly and allied state “must respect its sovereignty and cannot make it their business to give it instructions.”
The British newspaper “The Guardian” will also no longer post on the online platform in the future due to the role of X owner Elon Musk. “The US presidential election campaign has only underscored what we have long thought: that X is a toxic media platform and that its owner, Elon Musk, was able to use its influence to influence political discourse,” said the editorial team.
The portal also promotes “often disturbing content” such as right-wing extremist conspiracy theories and racism, it said. Previously blocked user accounts of well-known right-wing extremists, misogynists and conspiracy theorists were released again under Musk. The newspaper also referred to EU criticism of the content standards on X since it was taken over by the tech billionaire.
How does Nicola Piovani believe Elon Musk’s actions on social media platforms like X impact public trust in democratic institutions?
**Interview with Nicola Piovani on the Impact of Elon Musk and Social Media on Democracy**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Nicola. Recently, you, along with other prominent figures, have announced your departure from the platform formerly known as Twitter, now called X, due to concerns about Elon Musk. Can you elaborate on what prompted your decision?
**Nicola Piovani:** Thank you for having me. My decision to leave X stems from a fundamental concern about the way Elon Musk is steering the platform and its influence on political discourse. His behavior and rhetoric can undermine democratic values and freedoms, and I felt it was important to take a stand against this.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned that you believe Musk’s ideas are “light years away” from yours. How do you think his ownership of X affects the platform’s role in shaping public opinion and political ideologies?
**Nicola Piovani:** Musk’s influence is significant. By allowing extremist views and conspiracy theories to flourish, he contributes to a toxic environment that manipulates political ideas. A platform that once served as a space for open dialogue is now being used as a tool for misinformation. I believe this poses a clear danger to democracy.
**Interviewer:** Other artists and politicians have echoed similar sentiments. Do you think that this collective withdrawal from X can bring about meaningful change, or is it more symbolic?
**Nicola Piovani:** Symbolism has its power, especially when it reflects a growing discontent. I hope our actions will spur discussion and encourage others to think critically about their engagement with social media. While it may not lead to an immediate change in ownership or policy, it’s essential to signal our values and stand against abuses of power.
**Interviewer:** Italian President Sergio Mattarella responded to Musk’s comments about the judiciary by emphasizing Italy’s sovereignty. What is your perspective on the relationship between foreign influencers and domestic governance?
**Nicola Piovani:** It’s crucial for any foreign figure, especially someone of Musk’s prominence, to respect national sovereignty. As Mattarella stated, Italy can manage its affairs without outside interference. When influential individuals attempt to sway public sentiment or undermine institutions, it threatens the very foundations of democracy.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, do you believe that social media platforms can be redeemed, or is the harm too ingrained?
**Nicola Piovani:** Redemption is possible, but it requires significant change in how these platforms are governed and operated. We need accountability, transparency, and a commitment to fostering a healthy public discourse. Until then, it’s important for individuals like myself to use our voices to advocate for these changes, even if it means stepping away from certain platforms.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Nicola, for sharing your insights. It’s vital to have these conversations as we navigate the complexities of modern media and democracy.
**Nicola Piovani:** Thank you for the opportunity to discuss these important issues.
