EFNH - Freedom of Speech

What we need here is our statement of position & issues related to freedom of speech.

Points made so far include:

• First amendment freedom of expression must be protected on the electronic frontier
• A key distinction between the Internet and many other electronic communications channels is the "consenting user involvement" required to access information. TV and Radio are "broadcast", you get what is transmitted if you have a receiver, although with scrambling, it is possible to provide an additional level of selectivity. Even with the telephone, the consumer has limited control over "incoming" calls. Within the Internet, the user must seek information, just as you might look in a library, bookstore or video rental store. The user is in complete control of what paths they pursue.
• [issue added, j.isaak:] Email is a modest variation of this, and emerging tools like Knowbots and agents will add new dimensions of both control, and potential for delivery of apparently "unsolicited" materials.

Other commentary on speech includes:

• CSPP documents