RIP Net Neutrality: Why My Reversal Is a Positive Sign for the Future of the Internet
The Internet has undergone a massive transformation since I first predicted the worst-case scenario for Net Neutrality back in 2017. At the time, I believed that the lack of regulation would lead to a catastrophic decline in online content, stifling the voices of independent creators and small businesses. Fast-forward eight years, and I must admit that I was wrong.
Net Neutrality, in its simplest form, ensures that internet service providers (ISPs) treat all online content equally, without discrimination. This concept is often misinterpreted as a means to protect the free and open Internet, allowing for a diverse range of voices to be heard. However, the truth is more complex.
The regulation was initially based on a 1934 law, Title II of the Telecommunications Act, which aimed to govern the telephone industry. As technology evolved, the Internet emerged, and the original rules became less relevant. When the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) attempted to reframe these rules to fit the new digital landscape, the courts struck them down, rendering Net Neutrality a thing of the past.
In my 2017 article, I predicted a bleak future for the Internet, listing the following potential consequences of a Net Neutrality-free world:
* The end of good online content
* The end of affordable online content
* The end of independent online content
* It would be harder to find your favorite websites
* Slower broadband speeds
* ISPs controlling free and fair speech
While some of these predictions have come true, they are largely the result of larger technological and market shifts rather than the absence of Net Neutrality. Google, for example, has become a significant influencer of online content, with its searches and algorithms shaping what we see. The rise of streaming services, like Netflix, has led to a competitive marketplace where content creators must adapt to remain relevant.
The real challenge lies in the hands of tech giants, such as Google and social media platforms, which have a profound impact on the way we access and interact with online content. These companies, rather than ISPs, have become the de facto gatekeepers of the Internet, influencing what we see and how we consume information.
In this new landscape, it’s essential to rethink the role of ISPs and hold them accountable for ensuring that their services are reliable, secure, and accessible to all. The cost of content has increased, with streaming services striving to produce high-quality content to compete in a crowded market. This hike in costs has little to do with Net Neutrality and more to do with the intense competition in the streaming industry.
In conclusion, while I was incorrect about Net Neutrality, I believe it’s time to reimagine the regulatory landscape of the Internet. Rather than focusing on outdated rules, we need to create a new, comprehensive framework that tackles issues like online speech, content, and access to broadband connectivity. The Internet is a vital part of our daily lives, and it’s our responsibility to ensure that it remains open, accessible, and fair for all.
