A Note on Control and Children

Control on the internet has become a large issue in contemporary society because it is perceived as a medium for free speech. Many users of the internet are aghast at the concept of government control of the internet. However, total lack of government control is not a desirable method to any one either. The government regulates contracts and the enforcement of them as well as any legal or commercial disputes that may be produced over the internet.

Despite the backlash against government internet control over adult use, there has been a wave of parents who want restrictions and limitations placed on children's use of the internet. Because children are seen as vulnerable and in need of protection, people feel that children should be subject to special treatment. Laws would protect them so that they will not be exposed to adult situations that are beyond their ability to handle. Thus, the federal law for children on the internet was passed.

This law explicitly details how children's sites should be governed and what restrictions must be in place to make the site a "safe" environment for children. It is supposed to protect children.

Federal law governing the internet is a good idea, especially with children because there are a plethora of websites on the internet that are not appropriate for children to visit. Furthermore, the law will protect them from sexual predators and allow them to have a positive experience of the internet. Though children can seek out racy sites, adult content should not be exposed to unsolicited children. We can't protect them from everything, but I believe it is important to protect them from things that are unnecessary.

-Jessica Cha