Examines First Amendment, privacy, and intellectual property issues of communication on the Internet. Discusses developments in communications policy related to the proposed communication superhighway. Suggests ways in which communication scholars can secure fundamental legal protections necessary for full, free, and effective communication in the…

Discusses the uncertainty surrounding the application of the First Amendment to electronic bulletin boards, listservs, electronic conferences, and other exchanges of electronic information at public colleges and universities. Applies the notions of nonpublic forums and designated open forums to the computer network. (MLF)

Considers how civil law might treat claims of defamation arising from computer newsgroup postings. Concludes that newsgroup postings will probably be treated as a hybrid of print and broadcast media, and that newsgroup users will vigorously and aggressively protect freedoms of speech and press. While traditional defenses to defamation charges will…

Discusses the legal concerns of free access to information, tort liability, and free speech in a commercial electronic networking environment. Recommends that legal questions be addressed through case law, Congressional hearings, and agency solicitations, and that network service providers protect themselves by posting notice of equal access…

The federal Escrowed Encryption Standard (EES) has been opposed by civil liberties advocates and the computer industry. The author argues that the standard does not threaten privacy as long as its use remains voluntary, alternative forms of encryption are allowed, and the power of government to intercept transmission is kept in check. (20…

Discusses issues relating to the public interest regarding the National Information Infrastructure. Topics addressed include access, including access to the physical infrastructure and resources and access as a service provider; information rights, including privacy, intellectual property, freedom of speech, and government information; public…

The proposed deployment of the National Research and Education Network (NREN) offers an unprecedented opportunity for shaping a new expression of civic and pedagogical culture. It can be a positive force for change or a regressive distribution of resources and influence to those already most in possession of them. To prepare for the NREN, the…