Technology Based Solutions for Parental Control of Internet Speech
MAP is participating in ongoing discussions with policymakers and the computer and online industries to solve a very vexing problem: how to ensure parental control over what their children see over computers without compromising the free flow of speech and information.
While the Supreme Court was unequivocal about protecting free speech rights in cyberspace, the industry and Internet user groups have remained concerned about the threat of possible new legislation limiting these rights.
Thus, the industry has created a “filtering” system for use with World Wide Web browsers. This system, commonly known as PICS (“Platform for Internet Content Selection”), permits parents to screen out certain content for their children.
Some civil libertarians are concerned that PICS screens out too much material – some of which is neither indecent nor obscene – which they believe children should have the ability to see. They also fear too much government involvement in the process. Other groups believe that it is impossible and impolitic to tell parents how to raise their children, even if it means that parents will unduly limit information coming into their homes. However, these groups are concerned with any government attempts to require either PICS or other filtering mechanisms either at libraries, schools, or government offices.
MAP’s President was invited to participate in a special White House summit on these and other important issues affecting the Internet.