The Controversy Over Internet Censorship

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With the rise of the internet and the sudden boom of information that is now available online, this has sparked a controversial debate for the need for online censorship. In today’s society, people spread all across the globe are now able to be connected with one another and in ways that previously deemed to be impossible prior to the internet. Despite all the greatness that the internet has provided us with, there are many downfalls that may be a detriment to society as a whole. As a result, regulating these unwanted and offensive materials are the goals of many governments. However it is arguable for how far governments should be able to advance the censorship of the internet, as too much or too little will have its disadvantages to society. …show more content…
In today’s society the internet is renounced as a powerful media tool that provides a platform for which users are able to communicate their ideas. With this in mind users should be able to openly express their views and agendas to particular topics irrespective of the established views within society. However internet censorship could potentially limit or even to completely wipe out people’s freedom of speech. As a result this interferes with the free flow of information and the rights to communicate freely and completely goes against a democracy. From this it should be noted that internet censorship is a very complex and controversial in regards to finding a balance between a safer internet atmosphere without impinging on freedom of speech, a given right entitled to all …show more content…
Firstly a broad scale filter proposed by the Government may drive up related cost such as data center staff that is required to deal with complaints when they are blocked off or cannot access websites (Riley 2009). Additionally the internet filter may also interfere to set back the National Broadband Network speeds. As revealed by the Australian Communications and Media Authority that a proper internet censorship regime will most likely decrease current internet speeds by 20% or more (Riley 2009). From this, if internet speed were to decrease this could also lead to a loss of productivity by businesses. Therefore not only will censorship create huge economic costs, but it would also indirectly affect businesses in reducing productivity levels from longer loading times. Consequently is it highly questionable whether internet censorship is worth the consideration of the government’s scarce economic resources, or to be effectively spent on more important issues. Moreover internet censorship may create a disadvantage to the judicature of their respective society. For instance in China, individuals that publish and spread articles and information that openly challenges and criticizes the government’s actions can be imprisoned. However, despite that the conviction criterion for this accusation is deemed to be very vague, the
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