Censorship and the Internet

Authors: Eric Schiller, Mike Myers, Chris Bretl, Katy Morris, Dave Anderson

Page Design: Eric Schiller

The intent of this page is to give a broad view of the debate over censorship on the Internet. The opinions here are only those of the named members and are not necessarily those of the instructor, the school, or anyone else who might get in trouble for actually expressing an opinion. Have a nice day.

Background

With the growing use of the Internet in the last few years, there has been growing concern with its content, especially the large amounts of pornography. In 1996, Congress passed the Communications Decency Act to censor the Internet. It was later overturned by the Supreme Court, but the debate rages on. Below are essays written by group members covering various parts of the debate. There are also some censorship related links.

Essays

A Stand Against Censorship - Chris Bretl

Response To a New Censorship Bill - Dave Anderson

A Disucussion of Internet Pornography - Katy Morris

A Discussion of Internet Gambling - Katy Morris

Two Views On a Censorship Essay:

Response 1 - Mike Myers

Response 2 - Eric Schiller

Links

Here are a few links to sites dealing with Internet censorship.

Time Magazine Censorship Coverage
Federal Ruling Limits Internet Censorship
Internet Censorship and PICS in 900 Words
Censorship/Freedom of Information/Privacy Issues
Online Mobilization and Its Limitations
Censorship and the Internet
Censorship, Free Speech, and the Internet
Other Online Censorship Bills
Australian Internet Proposals Shelved
Information Concerning Internet Censorship Laws and Proposals
Hearing on New York Internet Censorship Law
Pornography, adult content, and Censorship on the Internet

Here are some links to a few sites with software that allows users to police their own Internet browsing.