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The Accountable Net: Peer Production of Internet Governance

Published

Abstract:

The Internet is so important to all of us that we must act collectively to control pernicious forms of electronic wrongdoing online. But we should keep the fundamental architecture and values of the Internet in mind as we do so. An increasing ability toverify that a message comes from someone from whom we want to hear can enhance our individual abilities to construct an Internet that reflects and tolerates diverse values. We should embrace thatchange. The risks involved in an Internet that makes peers accountable to one another are much lower than the risks ofempowering any centralized global authority to make connection decisions for individuals. Someone is already in charge of the Internet: we are.