Net Neutrality

1. Net Neutrality in theory is a great idea, it would allow for the open and widespread free sharing of ideas. However in practice it has been less than ideal, harmful and illegal data is shared by many people. Many people believe that freedom on the net is a basic right, and I agree sharing data and ideas should be a basic right as long as it is productive. However people still abuse this freedom and use it in abusive ways rather than productive ways.

2. The Federal Appeals court ruled that the FCC doesn't have a right to enforce its rules of coverage on internet access. This means that internet companies would be able to provide coverage to only where they see fit and on their terms. This could mean higher fees as well as, other hidden fees to access high-speed content. The FCC however stated that they will appeal the ruling.

3. Net Neutrality and freedom of speech almost go hand in hand really. I see Net Neutrality as basically freedom of speech (as well as content) on the web. People believe they should be able to discuss, share, and otherwise communicate about whatever they so choose on the internet. Much like how our freedom of speech allows us to freely communicate in the physical realm.

4. This recent news does certainly affect me. As a young adult I am virtually tied to the internet at all times, with prices potentially rising just to access basic content, it will certainly curb my web use.  The web is a key tool in our society, it is nearly a necessity. This ruling will greatly hinder the use of the tool that is the web, causing a large step back for the collaboration of society.

5. I believe that people should be able to freely access and share on the web. The web is a tool that should be fully utilized by society and any hindrance to this use is unacceptable. However I also believe that people should not abuse the web, just like they should not abuse Freedom of Speech. Illegal and hurtful activities on the web should be prohibited.

6.
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/03/19/business/international/eu-panel-adopts-net-neutrality-and-mobile-roaming-rules.html?_r=0

This is an article from the New York Times about European Net Neutrality. I believed this to be a valid source due to it being the New York Times.

http://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/news-room/content/20140318IPR39210/html/Net-neutralityIndustry-MEPs-want-stricter-rules-against-blocking-rival-services

This is another article on  European Net Neutrality. This seemed to me to be a valid source due to it being a press release from the EU Parliament.