Civilizing The Internet

Besides creating a virtual utopian landscape, the Internet has given new exposure and to some extent a veiled degree of legitimacy to all sorts of human vices. Misdeeds upon the Internet have caught many people, communities, and governments off guard, and many are struggling to come up with policies and censorship mechanisms to regulate an Internet they see as going out of control. The most affected domains are telecommunications, broadcasting, and computer services. In essence, this book discusses the convergence of the three media. It looks at the historical development of the Internet, its globalization, the concerns it has raised, and the tools available to deal with these concerns on a variety of levels. Also analyzed are the attempts being made around the globe to regulate the Internet. Students in computer, engineering, and library studies will find the book particularly helpful. It also serves those working in information-sensitive areas such as insurance and banking.