Internet Censorship Controversy

Internet censorship, When does it go to far?

Thesis of Presentation

Although many countries have censorship, censorship beyond the necessary violates many basic United States Constitutional amendments while constricting citizens.

What is Censorship?

Many different types of Censorship - films for language and content

- books for content- maps for military secrecy- music for language- internet for content

Internet Censorship

Control or containment of what is accessible or publishable on the internet

Government Responsibilities

Censorship through laws- Vint Cerf V.P. of Google:

- “Generally speaking, I find that governments have a sense of responsibility for protecting their citizens from harm in cyberspace.”

Protection Beneficial

Censorship in China

“China places unique limits on information. It is the only major country with an elaborate, formal system of censorship”

Why do the Chinese people put up with this restriction on information?

Mutual respect “Like the two parties of a binding

contract, the state provides protection and opportunities in vital regions of everyday life in exchange for individuals’ support for policies. Violations of the terms and conditions of the contract would mean deprival to guaranteed privileges”

United States Censorship

Ongoing debate Current censorship:

Communications Decency Act Child Online Protection Act Children’s Internet Protection Act

Proposed censorship: Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) Protect Intellectual Property Act (PIPA)

SOPA and PIPA

Goal Combat against copyright infringements

Downfalls Many sites would shut down Sites can still be accessed No explanation to identify what sites infringe

on copyrights

United Nations Controversy

Gain control, censor, and regulate internet worldwide

Taxing American based internet providers

Summary

Too much restriction to the public United Nations plans are unconstitutional

Much debate and thought that needs to be put into censorship before a consensus can be reached.