12:03 PM | Author: Ryan Schaefer
While I was reading the first article " A declaration of the Independence of Cyberspace" I couldn't help but think of my absolute favorite movie V for Vendetta. I most likely drew the connection because of the early settler vernacular and the rebellious tone of the entire article. Barlow comments on the relationship of the people to their governments saying,  "Governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed." V shares a similar philosophy and adds that, " People should not be afraid of their governments... Governments should be afraid of their people."  After I researched the historical context around this article I gained a slightly better understanding of Barlow's declaration. I think that that Barlow initially saw the internet as a full proof escape from reality and its rules, and with the enactment of the Telecommunications Reform Act Barlow felt as though his safe haven was being threatened. He then wrote this article declaring independence from reality and its rules. He describes the nature of Cyperspace as something that is not tangible, something that exists everywhere and nowhere, and something that lies beyond the governing boundaries of reality. He also comments on how Cyberspace "grows itself through our collective efforts" and how the government cannot treat this virtual reality as a public construction project. 

After reading and thinking about Barlow's article, I can see where he is coming from... especially when I think of the time he was living in and the infantile stage that the internet was. I do think that the internet should be regulated by the government. Though I believe it should be minimal, I do think that it is necessary. Nowadays the internet is too vast for even the government to thoroughly regulate anyways, for example file-sharing software like Napster and Limewire are feebly regulated today and millions of people illegally download music. The internet has evolved into a virtual god- invisible and powerful. I think it is fair to say that Uncle Ben (Spiderman) said it best when he said, " With great knowledge comes great responsibility." It is our responsibility to maintain a virtual environment that is just and safe for everyone.  

Ryan 
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