Mike Godwin Quotes

A collection of quotes by Mike Godwin.

Mike Godwin is an American attorney and author, best known for formulating "Godwin's Law." Born on October 26, 1956, in the United States, he earned his Bachelor's degree in Mass Communications from the University of California, Berkeley, and later received his Juris Doctor from the University of Texas School of Law.

Godwin began his legal career at the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) in 1990, where he served as the first staff counsel. During his tenure at EFF, he actively advocated for civil liberties in the rapidly evolving digital environment. His notable work includes representing online communities in various free speech cases and serving as a vocal opponent against censorship and excessive government control.

In 1991, Godwin famously formulated "Godwin's Law," during a discussion on online forums, which states that "as an online discussion grows longer, the probability of a comparison involving Nazis or Hitler approaches 1." The law has since become a widely recognized adage pertaining to Internet conversations and has been used as a guideline to discourage inappropriate and inflammatory rhetoric.

Apart from his legal career, Godwin has also contributed to various publications as a writer and columnist, wherein he explores topics related to law, technology, and civil liberties. With a strong belief in the power of the internet to promote free expression and democratic values, Mike Godwin continues to be an influential figure within the digital rights community.