Propaganda in the Online Free Speech Campaign 13717 Essay Example
Propaganda in the Online Free Speech Campaign 13717 Essay Example

Propaganda in the Online Free Speech Campaign 13717 Essay Example

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The Impact of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 on Free Speech and Propaganda

Published on July 1, 1996, an article titled "Propaganda and Mass Communication" discussed the effects of President Bill Clinton signing the Telecommunications Act into law earlier that year. This significant legislation brought about extensive changes to communication regulations in the United States after more than sixty years. Although this event was widely welcomed by individuals and businesses, there were concerns regarding a specific provision in the Act that established regulatory barriers within computer networks.

Since its inception, the Communications Decency Act (CDA) has encountered ongoing legal disputes. Numerous critics of the law have leveraged the internet to mobilize backing for their cause. These organizations encompass civil liberties groups, supporters of first amendment-protected free speech, and proponents of relaxed regulations on encrypted comput

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er data. Despite differing viewpoints, all these groups share a unified objective: championing online freedom of speech and opposing the CDA. They have effectively employed the internet to spread propaganda in support of this collective endeavor.

The Internet's widespread availability has raised concerns about propaganda due to its rapid growth and accessibility. One significant issue is the abundance of adult content and pornography, which poses problems for many individuals. Even those new to the Internet can easily find various adult materials such as photos, videos, stories, discussions, chat rooms, sexual ads, sound files, and live nudity. As a result of this easily accessible internet and existing concerns regarding adult content, there is a global debate on how to appropriately address this issue. The main worry is that children may access material intended only for adults.

The Internet is being misused for inappropriate activities like child

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pornography, which led to the implementation of the Communications Decency Act (CDA) by the government. The CDA defines unacceptable online speech and imposes penalties on violators. While it is commendable to protect children from accessing pornography, the CDA has created complications in the digital world. Supporters believe that due to the vastness of the Internet and the need for regulation of adult content's interaction with children, the CDA is crucial. However, opponents argue that its vague wording could potentially criminalize actions such as discussing abortion online - thus threatening our First Amendment rights.

Opponents contend that parents should be responsible for implementing Internet censorship at home, rather than the government. They argue that new legislation is unnecessary as certain activities such as child pornography are already prohibited by law. As a result, society finds itself embroiled in a courtroom dispute while online propagandists flourish amidst this chaos. This ongoing conflict regarding limitations on free speech is not unprecedented and has been a recurring theme throughout history. In the United States, several significant legal cases have revolved around the concept of freedom of speech. Despite being relatively recent and continuously developing, the Internet is not immune to these struggles.

The Internet is currently undergoing tests regarding free speech and propaganda, much like other forms of mass communication. There are various groups on the Internet dedicated to promoting free speech, but a few particularly stand out due to their extensive activities, strong online presence, and apparent support. One such group is the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), which actively opposes the Communications Decency Act (CDA). Established in 1990 as a non-profit organization, EFF emerged prior to the integration of the

Internet into our daily lives.

EFF was created by Mitchell D. Kapor and John Perry Barlow, founders of Lotus Development Corporation. It aims to address social and legal issues that arise from widespread computer use for communication and information distribution. EFF's objective is to safeguard and expand First Amendment rights within computing and telecommunications technology. In a press release announcing EFF's formation, Kapor emphasized that technological advancements in communication surpass the establishment of appropriate cultural, legal, and political frameworks for managing emerging issues. The EFF openly recognizes the inadequacy of the current American legal system in handling reliance on computers in daily life and pledges to address litigation problems in this field.

The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), funded initially by Steve Wozniak, co-founder of Apple Computer, has received contributions from industry giants such as AT&T, Microsoft, Netscape Communications, IBM, Ziff-Davis Publishing, Sun Microsystems, and the Newspaper Association of America. These companies recognize the importance of addressing legal issues in the computer industry and view the EFF as a means to protect their own rights and those of their customers. The Center for Democracy and Technology (CDT), founded in 1994 and based in Washington DC, is another advocate for protecting online free speech. While less transparent about its history and funding sources compared to the EFF, CDT's mission is to develop public policies that preserve democratic values and constitutional civil liberties on the internet and other interactive communications media. Similar to the EFF, it operates as a non-profit organization funded by individuals, foundations, as well as various companies within the computer and communications industry. Another key player in promoting online free speech is The Citizens Internet Empowerment Coalition

(CIEC). This group gained prominence through a unique lawsuit against the US Department of Justice and Attorney General Janet Reno.
The primary goal of the group was to contest laws, such as the Communications Decency Act (CDA), that included terms like "indecent," expressing their criticism.

The plaintiffs in this lawsuit include various individuals who are also contributors to the EFF. Among these plaintiffs are the American Booksellers Association, the Freedom to Read Foundation, Apple Computer, Microsoft, America Online, the Society of Professional Journalists, and Wired magazine. CIEC appeals to attract new members by stating that they represent a coalition consisting of Internet users, businesses, non-profit organizations, and civil liberties advocates.

CIEC was formed due to their belief that the Communications Decency Act (CDA) violates their free speech rights and imposes oppressive censorship and government intrusion on the Internet's operation.

It is highly likely that the same computer and publishing companies supporting CIEC's lawsuit also fund its existence although specific organizations or monetary transactions are not disclosed similar to CDT.

Unlike other activist groups with multiple objectives, CIEC focuses solely on challenging the constitutionality of the CDA.

The online free speech movement is motivated by several factors. One primary objective is to leverage the internet's capabilities in order to attract new supporters. The internet enables the collection of information from individuals without causing any inconvenience. People can easily provide their personal details, including their name and address, from the comfort of their own homes, which can then be transmitted to the organization's headquarters. This modern electronic approach surpasses the traditional method of visiting a physical store, engaging in conversation with someone, and manually completing membership information on paper. Online free speech advocates

have the freedom to become supporters at any time, even during late hours of the night while relaxing at home in their underwear and enjoying leftovers—all without needing to interact with a persuasive recruiter.

Thanks to the convenience of accessing information, organizations can now easily attract a significant number of members. Furthermore, the demographics of these members are highly sought after just by virtue of their online registration. Even though computers have become more user-friendly, most internet users are well-educated and typically have above-average incomes. On CIEC's webpage, there is a noticeable banner that urges new members to join and proudly announces that as of June 17, 1996, over 47,000 individual internet users have already signed up!

This specific method of announcing the number of new recruits is favored by various online organizations that recruit new members because it informs the user that they are not alone. The user will see the large number and understand that they will be part of a significant group of supporters, making them feel secure about signing up for the cause. Once someone becomes involved with an online free speech website, they are encouraged to become a member or supporter. However, the question arises: why are supporters necessary? In my opinion, when presented in a legal context, these extensive lists of members can be utilized to demonstrate the existence of numerous individuals who favor the online free speech campaign. Just like people voting for laws or politicians, membership lists serve as proof that people have "voted" for this cause. Though a membership list may not possess the same authority as an election outcome, it does indicate that regular people support this

cause. When the online free speech campaign presents the CDA case to the Supreme Court, they will possess lengthy lists of supporters, which could potentially sway the judges' decision in their favor.

The online free speech campaigns aim to both promote the movement and attract more businesses. When a software company that advertises online declares its support for the movement, it provides free advertising. By mentioning computer companies like Microsoft and Apple in the introduction and sign-up information, other companies may be encouraged to join due to the "me too" effect, where smaller companies look up to larger ones and may adopt their policies. For instance, if YYZ Software knows that Microsoft supports the free speech online movement, YYZ might feel important by supporting the cause as well. While the number of company owners or managers browsing a site is smaller compared to individual users, mentioning famous companies is an attempt to attract at least some supporters. Although this channel may only yield a small number of supporters, it still holds importance regardless of its size.

Continuous recruitment of new companies is crucial for the online free speech movement as substantial financial backers are always needed. If this strategy attracts a large corporation, it could offer significant financial support to the organization. While major players like Netscape and IBM are likely already familiar with the movement, new companies frequently emerge in the rapidly evolving computer industry. Hence, an unknown company today may become a prominent player tomorrow.

Furthermore, one of the campaign's aims is to protect businesses and their interests. For instance, Current Science plans to invest between $7.5 and $9 million in an upcoming online magazine

catering to scientists in the biomedical field (Rothstein), establishing its commitment.

Ensuring the success of ventures like this is crucial because they involve a significant amount of money. It is imperative to secure freedom of speech for these ventures. Although all groups aim to repeal the CDA, removing it does not mean that free speech issues on the Internet would completely disappear. Therefore, these groups will always exist in some form or another. Just as there is an ongoing debate about appropriate books for different audiences, there will always be a discussion about what Internet content is suitable for individuals with varying preferences. Additionally, due to the global nature of the Internet, one can understand the extent and complexity of this matter. It's important to note that online free speech propaganda cleverly resides where debates occur or conveniently occupies that space.

To effectively promote free speech, it is crucial to focus on the Internet as the primary platform for speech. By disseminating online propaganda about online free speech, you can directly engage your target audience. Those who do not use the Internet will display less interest compared to internet users. Hence, it is logical to center your campaign on the Internet because people there naturally prioritize issues of computer censorship more. Additionally, the Internet offers cost advantages over traditional media channels such as print or radio. This enables these groups to convey their messages directly to their desired audience at a considerably lower cost in comparison to conventional methods. However, these organizations advocating for online free speech have limited or no presence beyond the Internet, resulting in an inability to reach the maximum number of individuals possible.

Although

these groups have traditional offices, phone numbers, postal mailing addresses, and fax numbers, they are not widely known outside of the internet. While advertising through print or television may not be as effective or cost-efficient as promoting propaganda online, using traditional methods would reach a larger audience. Similar to other forms of mass media, the internet is also utilized for disseminating propaganda. This section explores the fascinating examples and techniques of propaganda employed by the online free speech movement. Although these groups primarily rely on electronic propaganda on the internet, it is crucial to acknowledge that the internet itself serves as a multimedia tool.

The Internet has the capability to transmit words, pictures, sound, and moving video unlike newspapers. These forms can also be diverse in terms of color, intensity, quality, and quantity which adds an element of unpredictability for the viewer. This aligns with the concept of utilizing all available channels to maximize propaganda's impact. The Blue Ribbon Campaign initially sparked my interest in the topic and it was my first experience with the online free speech movement. Almost a year ago, I began noticing the presence of the same blue ribbon icon on different websites and homepages on the Internet. Similar to the red AIDS awareness ribbon, these icons are typically around 8 mm high by 25 mm wide.

The size of the Blue Ribbon Campaign icon is dependent on various computer specific variables. However, the intention is for the icon to be small, ensuring quick loading without consuming excessive transfer time. The creators of the Blue Ribbon icon recognized that a large, time-consuming image would lead to frustration and a lack of respect.

As a result, they opted for a small and unobtrusive design that would not inconvenience web page visitors. The use of a blue ribbon is a clever choice, drawing inspiration from the widely recognized AIDS red ribbon campaign. While opinions on homosexuality may vary, the majority agree that stopping the spread of AIDS is essential. Leveraging this nearly universal appeal of the red ribbon, it is logical to introduce a blue ribbon in support of a similar cause.

Moreover, the blue ribbon icon is cleverly adopted, given the already established recognition and popularity of the red ribbon icon. One of the brilliant aspects of the internet's world wide web is the utilization of hyperlinks or hypertext. Hypertext enables readers to instantly navigate to related locations by clicking on specific content. Whenever a Blue Ribbon Campaign icon is present on the world wide web, it includes the Electronic Frontier Foundation's internet homepage address - a significant participant in advocating for online free speech.

By clicking on the Blue Ribbon icon, the reader is instantly transferred to EFF's homepage, allowing for a quick and convenient way to access information. Unlike the AIDS red ribbon movement, which requires individuals to ask for contact information to obtain AIDS information, the Blue Ribbon Campaign offers instant access. This aligns well with today's fast-paced society where people can easily understand the meaning behind the Blue Ribbon icon upon seeing it.

The person's attention is not interrupted by phone calls or waiting for postal letters, so they frequently come across the Blue Ribbon Campaign icons. They click on these icons to learn more about this symbol that is appearing everywhere. If they are not

in the mood to learn about the EFF, they can easily return to their previous activity. However, since the blue ribbon icon is found on various websites, they occasionally feel curious and explore this phenomenon further. The blue ribbon icon makes it convenient for them to access the EFF and see what it offers. The EFF's homepages provide a brief history of the organization, but there is no information about the actual origin of the Blue Ribbon Campaign.

According to an email I received from Dennis Derryberry at the EFF, the origin of the Blue Ribbon Campaign is not specific to any group. It is embraced by all individuals and groups who value and support free speech online. The idea was initially sparked by a woman who has been assisting us with membership functions. However, amidst the campaign's expansion, we seem to have forgotten its true source. This is perhaps due to the nature of a campaign that aims to benefit the wider audience. (Derryberry) Although the Blue Ribbon Campaign is not exclusive to any particular group, it was initiated by the EFF. All blue ribbon icons direct back to the EFF. On the EFF's homepage, joining options include becoming a member of the EFF, supporting the Blue Ribbon Campaign, or both. Joining the Blue Ribbon Campaign is straightforward and only requires providing basic personal information. You can then select and use one of several blue ribbon icons on your own website.

There are numerous blue ribbons in various sizes and compositions, but they are all centered on the basic concept of a blue ribbon. If a user is unsatisfied with the available online icons, they have

the option to receive information about other options. Additionally, users can create their own blue ribbon icon to be distributed by the EFF for the same cause. Focusing on the graphic image of the campaign is a strategic move because images captivate people's interest more effectively than words. If the phrase "Blue Ribbon Campaign" was prominently displayed everywhere, it would have less impact than the colored image of the blue ribbon that is accompanied by this phrase.

Although the EFF's website has a graphic-based doorway, the majority of its content consists of textual information centered around the CDA and freedom of speech. Additionally, the complete text of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, including the CDA, can be found here. By clicking on the blue ribbon icon, internet users can directly access the section of the EFF's website dedicated to the Blue Ribbon Campaign. It's important to note that the EFF's website offers much more than just the Blue Ribbon Campaign as it supports various other causes.

The EFF's homepage features various sections, including the Blue Ribbon Campaign section, distinguished by the familiar blue ribbon icon. This section provides a link to the latest information on the CDA, along with links to introductory information about the campaign, federal, state, and local information, an archive of past information, examples of Internet sites that could be banned under the CDA, activism information, and a "Skeptical?" link to persuade skeptics about the EFF's cause. The "About EFF" section is essential for new visitors and offers a brief history of the organization, answers to common questions, and insights into the beliefs and motivations behind the EFF.

Action Alerts is a compilation of

present events being watched by the EFF. It mentions one of the most recent action alerts about the CDA decision and urges participation in the Blue Ribbon Campaign, offering different methods to assist. The list begins with a disclaimer about civil disobedience being technically illegal.

Some activities that are suggested include: advocating for a 28th amendment to the U.S. Constitution that grants First Amendment rights to the Internet, participating in rallies, wearing T-shirts promoting free speech online, and displaying a real blue ribbon pin on your backpack if you are a student. This section also includes examples of previous protests and demonstrations against the CDA (Communications Decency Act) to demonstrate that people have actively supported the causes promoted on this website. The Guide to the Internet is a document that provides general information about the Internet and does not include any specific material related to the EFF (Electronic Frontier Foundation) or free speech.

Although seemingly innocent, its purpose extends beyond surface level. If a larger number of individuals can gain familiarity with the Internet, it is hoped that more people will utilize it and consequently develop an interest in online free speech. The archive index is a crucial resource on the EFF website due to its extensive collection of diverse documents. This index facilitates users in locating specific information within the EFF webpages. For instance, if one wishes to determine whether the term "pornography" appears in the CDA, it can be searched for.

The Newsletter section of the EFF contains both current and past newsletters. These newsletters provide updates on the EFF's ongoing projects. While some of the information in these newsletters may be redundant as it can

be found elsewhere on the site, there are two reasons for including them. Firstly, the newsletter format is familiar to everyone. When a new user visits the EFF site and sees the "newsletter" section, they will have a general understanding of how information will be presented in this format. This makes it easier and more welcoming to read compared to other types of information.

The newsletter serves an important purpose as it reiterates information. Propaganda utilizes repetition, so by including duplicate information in the newsletter, this achieves that effect. The calendar displays upcoming events and dates that hold significance for EFF. Most listings consist of protest rallies and scheduled speeches, which create a positive impression when attended by many individuals. The calendar serves as a comprehensive compilation of dates, making it convenient to access without the need for extensive searching on the website. Additionally, the information can be downloaded and integrated into a person's personal time management software on their computer.

The EFF has various sections on their website. Job openings provide information on applying for a job with the EFF. Merchandise allows people to purchase T-shirts and metal Blue Ribbon Campaign pins to support the cause. Awards lists the 19 awards won by the EFF, including "Best of the Web" and "Top 250 Lycos Sites".

The presentation of these accolades validates the organization and demonstrates to others that numerous individuals are accessing this website. Initially, Staff Homepages may appear uninteresting, but it is actually a compilation of the staff members ranked by position, along with a brief description of their responsibilities at the EFF. By clicking on an individual's name, you are redirected to their personal webpage.

This exhibition of information further bolsters the perception of white propaganda utilized by the EFF. Miscellaneous encompasses a list of sponsors, other noteworthy publications, as well as EFF-associated images, sounds, and animations.

Another illustration of online free speech propaganda on the Internet is a homepage that advocates for the lawsuit filed by The Citizens Internet Empowerment Coalition (CIEC, "seek") against the U.S. Department of Justice and Attorney General Janet Reno. The design of this page is intended to resemble a handbill or poster from the 1700s, evoking feelings of patriotism and the fight for one's nation. It would be challenging for an American not to be reminded of our struggle for independence from England upon viewing this document. Icons depicting passionate patriots, cannons and American flags, as well as visual representations of the Constitution, all elicit sentiments of fighting for what is just. Additionally, this page features a downloadable 4-minute audio clip.

This audio is Judith Krug of the American Libraries Association speaking about library censorship. By clicking on the icon, users can transfer the audio to their computer and listen to it as it is transmitted. Apart from these audio and visual messages, this website is similar to the EFF's as it provides abundant information and links to anti-CDA sites. Another website that makes use of propaganda is run by the Center for Democracy and Technology (CDT). Similar to many other sites, this website incorporates an animated "Free Speech" icon that showcases fireworks bursting in the sky.

Just like other examples, the CDT website is also very patriotic. Similar to other sites, it showcases the Internet awards they have earned and the number of people who have

joined their cause against the CDA. Contrary to popular belief, there is not much propaganda supporting those who favor the CDA. This can be attributed to the bipartisan nature of the debate surrounding the CDA, which has prevented both Republicans and Democrats from promoting propaganda if it had been a partisan issue.

The scarcity of counter-propaganda is primarily due to the fact that the CDA is a legally-binding regulation, thus those in favor of it have already been somewhat satisfied. Those opposing the CDA are engaging in protests and propagandistic efforts in an attempt to advocate for its modification. It is a common occurrence in life to hear more complaints from dissatisfied individuals than from those who are content.

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