Three Myths of Internet Governance. Making sense of networks, governance and regulation

The Internet is a global medium that defies and replaces established media, yet our understanding and ideas surrounding it are largely derived from Internet usage in the USA. This book draws on European and African examples to challenge three established myths about the Internet: that the market can decide; that the Internet is different to ‘legacy’ media; and that national governance is unimportant. The study engages with and challenges established Internet policy, extending the range of topics in media studies by analyzing mediums other than newspapers, broadcasting and cinema. Chapters confront claims that a new form of social coordination or network governance is replacing both hierarchical and market systems of governance. Collins examines the Internet’s impact on established media of communication and on established regulatory orders at national and global levels. He then digs deeper into the socio-ethical norms of freedom of expression, fairness and equality and collective cultural identity in relation to the Internet. Based on extensive empirical research (including interviews and participant observation in international governance at a UN World Summit), Three Myths of Internet Governance will appeal to media studies lecturers and students, policy makers and regulators