Net neutrality matters
Net neutrality ensures that people – not companies – have the freedom to choose what they see online.
It ensures the market, comprised of individual people making individual decisions, determines what is successful and popular online – not AT&T, Comcast, Verizon, and other companies with vested interests.
There is a real possibility that net neutrality will end. On Thursday, December 14, FCC Chairman Ajit Pai is scheduled to end the protections that treat internet service providers like utilities. This effectively terminates the rule that content be treated equally in how it is transmitted – the end of net neutrality.
It is not hyperbole to say that the end of net neutrality means the end of the internet as we know it.
It is not hyperbole to say that the end of net neutrality means the end of the internet as we know it. The way you get information, watch shows, and purchase products online would fundamentally change. Companies that provide internet service could charge you different rates based on what you do online. They could slow down your connection to certain sites, and speed up the connection to others. They could even control who is allowed to see which websites.
Poll Everywhere believes that maintaining the integrity of our information infrastructure is vital. As a company, we help presenters and audiences connect with each other. Our product facilitates the open exchange of information between students, employees, conference attendees, and more. This exchange is vital to a well-run, well-functioning classroom or organization – and indeed a robust society. Net neutrality ensures the flow of information over the internet is also open and free.
We are not blind to the cost of regulation. All protections come at a cost. In the case of net neutrality, that cost is worth bearing.
Net neutrality ensures the flow of information over the internet is open and free.
If you are a US citizen you can officially comment on the FCC proposal. The “Proceeding” number to input in the first field is: 17-108.
In addition, contact your Congressional representative to understand their position and any legislative course that may be possible. You can find the name of your Congressional representative using your residential zip code.
Poll Everywhere would like to acknowledge, in the spirit of transparency that is core to our culture, that not all members of our organization concur with this stance. As individuals and as a company, we have learned from the robust discussions we’ve had – and will continue to do so.
