CyberSpace

Podcast: A metal podcast, the episode I have selected covers one of my favorite styles within the genre which is symphonic meta- an interesting style that combines traditional metal with elements such as choirs, orchestral arrangements, and some epic subject matter.

http://www.metalcastshow.com/archives/1403

In this week’s articles two differing view points are offered on the progression and future of cyberspace.

1. In cosmopolitan ideal or Cybercentris Charles Ess presents the view point that although there appears a to be truly free global village ,it is in fact restricted by the cultural and value barriers that manifest itself in different parts of the worlds. While the internet seems to be based on and espouses western values, nonetheless it does not necessarily contribute to the spread of these values worldwide because of the cultural barriers, where some places might not agree with the western values of freedom. Essentially while the internet is based in western thought and principles, the idea that it will spread in a free manner, reflects the culture bias of western society. Instead what is increasingly being recognized is that the internet is simply a tool, and can be used toward different ends depending on the means of the user. This is best explained in Chinas use of internet security tech to help the chins government subvert the freedoms of their citizens. As such the internet while it has western principles in mind will not necessarily reflect those ideals in practice.

2. Betting’s key idea is that the internet started out as a free institutions which reflect the western values of liberty and choice, however despite this it is becoming subject to increasing corporate influence and control. The ultimate fear is that the internet will become a virtual prison that is controlled by corporations who will have monopolized the means of access to the internet. In his view this will come about from companies limiting choice consumers have by limiting some products in order to create profit.

In looking at both of these view points I see a similarity that they both agree on the internet had a good start, and then warns us of a future danger. The first being primarily concerned with cultural limitations while the second with commercial limits. I don’t think the points of these articles are mutually exclusive in the sense that it’s not one or the other that has to be right, and in a sense I disagree with both of them: as I think that ultimately you cannot stop the internet. If I had to pick one, than I would say the cultural aspect resonates more with me. This is because it has already been proven in history that commercial attempts to limit the freedom of the internet have failed I.e. AOL. On the other hand while I believe in the superiority of western values, that view is only an opinion and can in turn be fallible: so it is plausible that the freedom on the net could be foiled through different value systems.

[Via http://nightvole.wordpress.com]