Net Neutrality
I2Q April 2015 editorial – (PART 2)

Proposed ISP Solutions:

ISPs have come up with several solutions to solve the problems of increasing data packet traffic and raising costs outside their nodes. Firstly, is the idea of getting rid of net-neutrality. They would do this by having a faster data packet lane for preferred customers and slower data lanes for everybody else. This would mean that targeted segments of the population would have slower internet and could be even censored by the ISPs.

Secondly, ISPs would look for new ways to generate income from users. This could lead to users being charged for services that are currently free. For example, companies such as Youtube might start charging people.

Thirdly and most offensive, is talk of shutting down the open internet. That means censorship, fees and basically limits on use and content. This is a very draconian solution that should never be tolerated. We should not tolerate any legislation or company that wants the internet to be open only to the few. The internet should be open to everyone.

Post Net Neutrality Internet Issues:

So we can ask ourselves, where will this net neutrality issue lead to? The answer to that question looks like a slower more expensive internet for average users and people in disadvantaged neighborhoods. As well as varied forms of censorship by the ISPs, government and large corporations on the individual or small businesses.

Individuals will have less control over where they can go online, what they can post and most importantly the right to their own information. How their own information is used, what is put up about them and what companies decide to do with their information. This basically gives companies and the government unprecedented control over the individual´s private life and finances. For example, a small business owner would not have a fair business environment if the ISPs were censoring his / her business advertisements online at the behest of a large company paying the ISPs.

Keep in mind that in this case more laws means less freedom and access online for the individual or small business. It is up to Congress to direct laws at ISPs and corporations that will give as fair access as possible to everyone.

The internet should remain an open market of ideas, goods and services. Some have called it a bizarre or marketplace and others have likened it to the sub-conscience. Either way, it should remain a fair place to conduct business for everyone.

Universal Internet Access With Fair Corporate and Governmental Participation:

The internet is the most powerful tool humanity, or more precisely the individual, has ever had against ignorance, isolation and those that would stifle creativity. It´s also a wonderful source of entertainment, full of libraries of books, movies, videos, articles and music to name just a few. It´s part of humanity´s cultural heritage and every individuals right to participate in its growth and enjoy its content. We cannot let corporations and governments turn it into a passive tool for social engineering through censorship and unfair fees.

 End of Part 2

(Commentary by www.ink2quill.com )
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