Platform Governance: The Antitrust Option

Abstract

Background: This policy review unpacks the complexities of applying competition law to platforms. These complexities arise from competing schools of thought, multisided market environments, and a limited capacity to address broader questions of platform governance. Analysis: A comparative analysis of a selection of cases and legislation is used to illuminate the diversity of approaches within competition and antitrust laws. Conclusions and implications: Reform-minded scholars, activists, and policymakers should engage the antitrust option with realistic expectations and simultaneously continue to seek policy alternatives to this framework.