I am a physics professor. I in no way condone or promote flat earth 'science'. An individual has written and published a book promoting flat earth theory, and in the video has implied that I participated in a 'peer review' - and subsequent approval - of his book. He shows screenshots of our department webpage showing the names and email address of the faculty members (all public information), and states that we peer-reviewed his book. He wrote two emails to the members of the department, but received no response. His claim in the video is that through his reaching out to us and sending us an e-copy of the book, and through our omission of a response, his book has been peer reviewed by an accredited university. This is, of course, absurd.
It is not clear if YouTube policies prohibit the posting of this video. One could argue it falls under the auspice of 'misleading content', but I believe that is a rather weak argument, as that clause of the policy relates primarily to the advertising of the video. Our university general counsel has decided not to take action against this individual; that is, not issue a cease-and-desist letter nor request that YouTube remove the video. Our department chair is in tacit agreement with our general counsel. I do not want my reputation as a scientist tarnished by my connection to flat earth research through the video. What steps can/should I take to get it removed? Or am I USC without a paddle? I'd prefer not to post a link to the video in the interest of personal privacy. I suspect you can find the link if you search enough, though.
YouTube has a defamation webform, but I am in the United States, and YouTube does not remove videos due to defamation claims from persons in the USA unless the claim has been substantiated in court. Thanks to everyone for your help.
Written By: ObeseObedience
Source: https://ift.tt/2V0Jpxv
No comments:
Post a Comment