It’s 30 years today since Tim Berners-Lee submitted a proposal for what would become the World Wide Web. The inventor has said that while he feels the web was a force for good for its first 15 years, he now thinks action is required to prevent a ‘downward plunge to a dysfunctional future.’
Berners-Lee said that the 30th anniversary was a time to reflect on both the positives and negatives …
He made the comments in an interview with the BBC.
The ‘contract for the web‘ refers to an initiative backed by Berners-Lee to ‘establish clear norms, laws and standards that underpin the web.’ It calls for action by governments, companies and individuals alike.
Net neutrality is one element of that, he said.
Ensure everyone can connect to the internet so that anyone, no matter who they are or where they live, can participate actively online.
Keep all of the internet available, all of the time so that no one is denied their right to full internet access.
Respect people’s fundamental right to privacy so everyone can use the internet freely, safely and without fear.
Companies Will:
Make the internet affordable and accessible to everyone so that no one is excluded from using and shaping the web.
Respect consumers’ privacy and personal data so people are in control of their lives online.
Develop technologies that support the best in humanity and challenge the worst so the web really is a public good that puts people first.
Citizens Will:
Be creators and collaborators on the web so the web has rich and relevant content for everyone.
Build strong communities that respect civil discourse and human dignity so that everyone feels safe and welcome online.
Fight for the web so the web remains open and a global public resource for people everywhere, now and in the future.
In an open letter, Berners-Lee wrote about the two sides of the web.
He said he was particularly concerned about deliberate, malicious intent – such as state-sponsored hacks and interference with elections; business models that reward the viral spread of misinformation; and ‘the outraged and polarised tone and quality of online discourse.’
And while the web has created opportunity, given marginalised groups a voice, and made our daily lives easier, it has also created opportunity for scammers, given a voice to those who spread hatred, and made all kinds of crime easier to commit.
Reuters notes that Berners-Lee also shared the reaction his original proposal received from his boss.
The anniversary is also marked by a Google Doodle.
“Thank goodness it wasn’t ‘Exciting but vague’,” Berners-Lee said.
Photo: Shutterstock
