Rights and Responsibilities Online: A Paradox for Our Times

Authors

  • Jonathan F. Fanton The MacArthur Foundation

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5210/fm.v13i8.2196

Abstract

The Internet is hailed as a democratic force freeing people from inherited orthodoxy and hierarchy. Yet some observers and visitors of virtual worlds decry the absence of the individual rights we have come to expect in a democratic society. This paradox of the Internet’s democratic promise and lack of democratic protections raises vexing legal issues. What are the rights and responsibilities of owners and users of digital media, profilers on social network sites, game players and participants in virtual worlds of all types? These issues must be addressed if the power of community is to be realized in a just and sustainable way.

Author Biography

Jonathan F. Fanton, The MacArthur Foundation

President, The MacArthur Foundation

Downloads

Published

2008-08-09

How to Cite

Fanton, J. F. (2008). Rights and Responsibilities Online: A Paradox for Our Times. First Monday, 13(8). https://doi.org/10.5210/fm.v13i8.2196

Issue

Section

Keynote Address