Net or network neutrality is a new term and one that is important to understand. According to the PC Magazine Encyclopedia, network neutrality is defined as, “A level playing field for Internet transport. It refers to the absence of restrictions or priorities placed on the type of content carried over the Internet by the carriers and ISPs (Internet Service Providers) that run the major backbones. It states that all traffic be treated equally; that packets are delivered on a first-come, first-served basis regardless from where they originated or to where they are destined.”
Earlier this month, the Communications Commission of the National Council of Churches USA passed a resolution in favor of net neutrality.
Therefore, we jointly urge the Federal Communications Commission to take any and all action to adopt network neutrality, including reclassification of broadband services as a telecommunications service, as a fundamental and necessary part of the framework for all forms of broadband Internet service that will protect the freedom of every individual and group to see and hear and send any information they desire.
So What?
Net neutrality is the best way to ensure that all Internet users have equal access to all information. Without this assurance from the Federal Communications Commission, many scenarios could transpire that could adversely impact the way people experience the online content of faith communities. One specific concern noted in the National Council of Churches USA’s resolution is that “large for-profit companies providing Internet services may have a commercial incentive to favor their own content over others and as a result could limit the activity and equal access of members of faith communities and other non-commercial organizations online.”
Decisions will be made sooner rather than later on this important issue. The FCC has delayed its net neutrality ruling while it seeks additional public opinion. Congress has considered the issue relatively recently, but now is unlikely to reconsider it much less pass anything meaningful until after the elections. To further complicate matters, earlier this year a court ruled that the FCC did not have the jurisdiction to sanction Comcast when it was found violating net neutrality principles.
Do you favor net neutrality? Why or why not?
Imagine the Internet without net neutrality. What are some concrete examples of likely ways this would hinder the abilities of non-profit organizations to effectively leverage the web? Would your access to this blog be limited or slower than to other content?