X204 Project

Net neutrality is the constitution of the internet in America. The Obama administration passed legislation in 2015. Sadly, Net neutrality died a horrible and sudden death at the hands of Ajit Pai at the end of 2017. This appeal was one of the biggest controversies of 2017 amongst the American people.

Without net neutrality, internet service providers can control content and service across the board. These providers can slow down internet service, charge extra fees, and even block content for other internet services. The bottom line for this appeal is monetary gain for a platform that was once free and accessible to anyone. Without open internet, information cannot be shared as easily among the North American population, which can cause people to be ignorant of political and social policies. Without net neutrality, how would we, the people, keep up with Donald Trump’s twitter account? We would have to pay extra or not see it at all if the providers decided to restrict access to Twitter.
Twenty-two state attorney’s general are asking to reinstate net neutrality rules. AT&T, Verizon, and Comcast are for the death of net neutrality, but other companies oppose the appeal. These other companies are Facebook, Amazon, and even Pornhub. When your porn preference involves themselves in politics, the stakes are obviously high.

So far, internet providers have not made the major changes that most Americans fear. These companies still have that power in their hands without regulations. Right now, it is a huge waiting game. Once another Democratic candidate is elected for the Oval office, net neutrality will more than likely be instated, once more. Until then, the American population can thrive on hopes and prayers that internet service providers keep the internet playground fair to all.

By
Kaylee Gaddie
IUPUC Psychology Major