Full Answer Section

• TikTok is not the only app that collects personal data from its users. Lewis points out that many other popular apps, such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, also collect a wide range of data about their users. He argues that a ban on TikTok would not significantly improve user privacy, as users would still be vulnerable to data collection from other apps and companies.
• The U.S. government already has a number of ways to access user data. Lewis notes that the U.S. government has a variety of legal tools at its disposal, such as the National Security Agency’s (NSA) PRISM program, which allows the government to collect data from U.S. tech companies. He argues that a ban on TikTok would not prevent the U.S. government from accessing user data, as it would still be able to do so through other channels.

Evaluation of Lewis’ Argument

Lewis’ argument is well-supported by evidence. He cites a number of studies and articles to support his claims, and he provides specific examples to illustrate his points. He also acknowledges the counterarguments to his position and addresses them directly.

For example, Lewis acknowledges that TikTok is owned by a Chinese company, ByteDance. This has raised concerns that the Chinese government could use TikTok to access data about U.S. users. However, Lewis points out that ByteDance is subject to U.S. law, and that TikTok’s data is stored on U.S. servers. He also notes that the Chinese government would have to go through significant legal hurdles in order to access TikTok user data.

Overall, Lewis’ argument is persuasive. He provides a clear and concise overview of the issue, and he supports his claims with evidence. He also acknowledges and addresses the counterarguments to his position.

Additional Thoughts

One of the strengths of Lewis’ argument is that he takes a holistic view of the issue. He recognizes that TikTok is not the only company that collects personal data from its users, and that the U.S. government already has a number of ways to access user data. This helps to put the TikTok issue in perspective and shows that banning TikTok would not be a silver bullet for protecting user privacy.

Another strength of Lewis’ argument is that he is realistic about what can be achieved. He acknowledges that it is unlikely that the U.S. government will give up its ability to collect user data. However, he argues that there are steps that can be taken to improve user privacy, such as increasing transparency about how data is collected and used, and giving users more control over their data.

Overall, I believe that Lewis presents a well-argued and persuasive case against a targeted ban or divesture of TikTok. He shows that TikTok is not the only company that collects personal data from its users, and that the U.S. government already has a number of ways to access user data. He also argues that banning TikTok would not significantly improve user privacy, as users would still be vulnerable to data collection from other apps and companies.