Manipulative Maschinen

This dissertation examines whether so-called social bots can and should be regulated by means of criminal law to protect public opinion on the Internet against disinformation. Based on empirical evidence and original field research, it takes the view of both constitutional law and criminal policy. In terms of methodology, it explores constitutional limitations on criminal law legislation and compiles a standard for the evaluation of (criminal) policy. In terms of content, it focuses on carving out a legally protected interest (“Rechtsgut”) jeopardized by social bots and evaluating alternative regulation outside of criminal law. In conclusion, the dissertation rejects the idea of regulating social bots by means of criminal law.