Internet Censorship Controversy Internet censorship, When does it go to far?

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

 Many different types of Censorship - films for language and content - books for content - maps for military secrecy - music for language - internet for content

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

 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

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

 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”

 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)

 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

 Gain control, censor, and regulate internet worldwide  Taxing American based internet providers

 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.