Network Neutrality
An Online Information Resource (OIR) for Library & Information Professionals
Network neutrality refers to the principle that all data on the Internet be treated equally by both Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and governments, regardless of its origin, content, application or destination. Network neutrality is a non-discriminatory approach which ensures that all entities, organizations and people have equitable access to the information and services offered online, as well as equitable access to participate by providing and creating content.
In the United States especially, network neutrality is undergoing extensive debate and generating increasing concern. Proponents argue that network neutrality is essential for maintaining an accessible, open-source web environment. They fear that allowing a tiered, discriminatory or closed Internet will deny users their rights to intellectual freedom and freedom of speech. Conversely, opponents argue that legislation supporting network neutrality would stump investment and innovation. They further argue that the Internet is non-neutral by design. Presently, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is considering their stance on the network neutrality debate.
Library and information professionals have the potential to be detrimentally impacted by the results of this debate. Libraries are not able to compete with corporate entities seeking top-tier service, especially with ever-dwindling fiscal resources. As such, legislation that disfavors network neutrality and allows for the implementation of tiered-service effectively undermines and downgrades libraries. Legislation in favor of network neutrality, however, allows for equitable access to quality of service. Such access enables libraries and library and information professionals to continue to create, maintain, organize and disseminate information without jeopardizing patrons’ rights to further education, intellectual freedom and freedom of speech.
In the United States especially, network neutrality is undergoing extensive debate and generating increasing concern. Proponents argue that network neutrality is essential for maintaining an accessible, open-source web environment. They fear that allowing a tiered, discriminatory or closed Internet will deny users their rights to intellectual freedom and freedom of speech. Conversely, opponents argue that legislation supporting network neutrality would stump investment and innovation. They further argue that the Internet is non-neutral by design. Presently, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is considering their stance on the network neutrality debate.
Library and information professionals have the potential to be detrimentally impacted by the results of this debate. Libraries are not able to compete with corporate entities seeking top-tier service, especially with ever-dwindling fiscal resources. As such, legislation that disfavors network neutrality and allows for the implementation of tiered-service effectively undermines and downgrades libraries. Legislation in favor of network neutrality, however, allows for equitable access to quality of service. Such access enables libraries and library and information professionals to continue to create, maintain, organize and disseminate information without jeopardizing patrons’ rights to further education, intellectual freedom and freedom of speech.
Table of Contents
Home Background Currents
Future Impact on Libraries & Information Centers
Social Implications Future Trends
Project Management Materials References & Web Resources
Collaborative Summary & Assessment Collaborative Evaluation
Home Background Currents
Future Impact on Libraries & Information Centers
Social Implications Future Trends
Project Management Materials References & Web Resources
Collaborative Summary & Assessment Collaborative Evaluation
OIR Group Members:
Cassandra Walker, Jill Halbach, Loralyn Kemmery & Matthew Grannell
Professor Brian C. Gray, Fall 2014
Site image: "Co-authorship network map of physicians publishing on hepatitis C" by Andy Lamb and is licensed under CC by 2.0