Content-type: text/html Downes.ca ~ Stephen's Web ~ These are the arguments against net neutrality — and why they’re wrong

Stephen Downes

Knowledge, Learning, Community
I am unambiguously in favour of net neutrality, but I think that the strongest argument against it isn't any of the arguments listed here but the unassailable fact that the net is not neutral now and that therefore 'net neutrality' pits one form of unequal distribution of wealth against another. Today, because of asynchronous internet access, people cannot run web servers from their homes. Additionally, because of content distribution networks, professional content will run more quickly than private content. Finally, overhead costs and technology (for example, digital certificates) make it more difficult for individuals to offer online content. These all favour technology companies, but their dominance is being challenged by media and telecommunication companies who feel their advantageous position ought also to be favoured by pricing advantages.

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Stephen Downes Stephen Downes, Casselman, Canada
stephen@downes.ca

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Last Updated: Nov 21, 2024 1:18 p.m.

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