The quote suggests a mutual disconnect between Congress and the Internet community. It implies that members of Congress might struggle to fully grasp the intricacies, dynamics, and implications of internet technology and culture, while simultaneously indicating that the broader online public has little understanding or influence over how legislation and policy are crafted within Congress.
This statement delves deeper into the complex relationship between technological advancement and political decision-making. Rebecca MacKinnon’s words highlight a significant divide where lawmakers often operate with outdated knowledge about the internet, potentially leading to ineffective or poorly conceived policies concerning technology and digital rights. Conversely, it also points out that Internet users and communities are not actively involved in shaping legislation that directly impacts them, which can result in regulations that do not align with contemporary online practices or needs. This mutual misunderstanding underscores a broader issue of communication and engagement between those crafting laws and the individuals they affect.
Rebecca MacKinnon is an American journalist and writer who has extensively researched and written about the Internet’s impact on society, particularly focusing on issues related to digital rights, free speech, and privacy. Her work often critiques how governments and corporations interact with internet users, advocating for a more transparent and democratic approach in managing online spaces.
