Source:Global Times Published: 2012-12-21 0:10:06
Good things should exist forever. An unspoken assumption is that negative elements should be identified and constrained.
The Internet is a typical example. It has changed the world, including the lives of Chinese people. We treasure its merits and will maintain its positive impacts on society's development.
However, due to the complicated nature of exposure on the Internet, we must strengthen regulations over it.
The Internet delivers the message of freedom of expression to most Chinese people and is playing an irreplaceable role in China's democratization process. China has treasured its influence, and is hesitant when it comes to dealing with its negative impact.
People would be concerned if any strict regulations devalued it. Therefore, while other countries have legislated to regulate the Internet, China has still been thinking about it.
China's legislation on the Internet and actual management over it have been moderate so far.
The impact of censorship has been far less than the impact of the public's enthusiasm for freedom of expression. In the long-term game between censorship and netizens, the former is the loser.
Problems caused by the Internet have been accumulating. It advocates individual freedom, but at the same time severely damages it. The exposure of private data as well as illegal online activity have destroyed the positive environment of this new medium.
Opposition against Internet regulations has been fierce. Western voices claim that China's Internet management is suppressing freedom of expression. Both put pressure on this job.
Opinions on the Internet are always radical and Western views are highly politicized. China's regulations over the Internet should focus on one specific question: Whether these regulations benefit the Internet's long-term development and whether they help promote human rights and democracy.
It is time to regulate the Internet. Such a view is actually embraced not only by the authorities but also by the public who fear that their privacy may be intruded upon. This regulation will not affect netizens' activities on the Internet but only provide more security. People who feel constrained by it are those who create waves online or even use the Internet illegally.
The Internet sphere is virtual but it reflects the reality of society. The interaction between the Internet and the real world makes the impact of the Internet expand immensely.
The Internet has gradually become the transmission center for all kinds of information.
The importance of the Internet is rising, while it imbues users with a tendency to abuse power. As it has become a platform of mainstream opinions, it should be strictly regulated.
It is a common wish that the Internet can develop healthily. Without its prosperity and advancement, China will see no positive prospects. The future of the Internet lies in maintaining its advantages while eliminating contaminating factors.