SUMMARY
A landmark antitrust trial between the Department of Justice and Google is coming to an end. The tech giant is accused of monopolizing the internet search market, sidelining competitors and harming consumers. The DOJ claims Google struck illegal deals, but the company argues it has the best search engine. Stephanie Sy discussed the case with Rebecca Allensworth of Vanderbilt Law School.
View the transcript of the story.
News alternative: Check out recent segments from the NewsHour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.
Key terms
monopoly: a business that has significant control over the market for its products, such that it can raise prices without fear of competition
antitrust law: laws designed to ensure competition and fair business practices to help protect consumers from the dangers of monopolies and coordination between competitors
WARM-UP QUESTIONS
- Who is suing Google?
- When did the Justice Department bring this lawsuit?
- What are the accusations against Google?
- How does Google argue it isn't a monopoly?
- Why does the guest interviewed in this story think that a Google break up is less likely to occur than other outcomes?
FOCUS QUESTIONS
Why do you think the government has brought this case against Google? What do you think is their concern with Google's business practices, and how do you think they believe Google is causing harm to other companies?
Media literacy: What was most confusing to you about this story and the lawsuit described? How could you find out more?
Alternative: See, Think, Wonder: What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What would you want to learn more about?
FOR MORE
What students can do: This story mentions that the Justice Department lawsuit is just one lawsuit aimed at challenging the market power of big tech companies. Read the following article and discuss —
- Why do you think the Justice Department is so concerned about the market power of big tech companies?
- How do you think these lawsuits might change the way people use the internet in the U.S. and elsewhere?
FTC launches antitrust inquiry into artificial intelligence deals by tech giants
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