Net Neutrality - What Does It Mean For You?
- Jessica Yeh
- Nov 14, 2017
- 2 min read
You’ve probably heard the phrase “net neutrality” in the news, read it on your Tumblr dash, seen in splashed across your Facebook timeline. If you aren’t aware by now, there’s a debate regarding the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the current state of net neutrality.
What Is Net Neutrality
The internet has always run on net neutrality. It allows us to access the internet for free, regardless of which site or what platform we’re accessing it from. It states that internet service providers and the government have no control over data and must not discriminate or charge users for using the internet.
The Repeal
President Trump and the Chairman of the United States Federal Communications Commission, Ajit Pai, wanted to end net neutrality. On Thursday, December 14th, in a 3-2 vote, the FCC approved of the movement to repeal net neutrality and get rid of free communication. This impact will be astronomical on how we interact in our daily lives.
How Does This Affect You?
There will be no way for free, open communication online.
Want to use Facebook? Nah.
YouTube? You wish.
What about phone apps like Snapchat? Nope. Nope. And nope.
Online gaming? Better go outside.
Google? Don’t even think about it.
To gain access to all of these sites that we normally take for granted, you’ll be charged a fee based on your usage.
Twitter: $14.99/month
Snapchat: $9.99/month
Youtube: $19.99/month
Netflix: $9.99/per movie
Google: $1.99/per search
How Does This Affect Businesses?
Small businesses, start ups, etc. rely on net neutrality to be able to openly promote their products and services. Without proper exposure, many businesses will struggle to remain afloat and consumers who cannot afford to pay for internet use may stop purchasing, simply because they’re unable to properly gather information. This ripple could cause a major strain on the economy down the line. It is likely that only monopolies and corporate tycoons will be able to sustain themselves.
How Does This Affect Society?
Without access to the internet, we will no longer be aware of social issues. Outlets will be regulated and we will have to pay to get news. Since we live in a time where issues are broadcasted over multiple platforms, the internet being the fastest at spreading information, it’s expected that a loss of net neutrality will greatly skew public perception and widen the gap between classes. Those who can afford it, will be informed. Those who can’t, will be at a disadvantage. The government can hide content and regulate what’s being seen or absorbed based on the audience. Welcome back to 1984.
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