Economist Podcasts

Bits in pieces: a fragmenting internet

Nov 19, 2019
Tim Cross, Technology editor for The Economist, delves into the complexities of internet regulation and the resulting 'splinternet,' highlighting the need for accountability in the age of misinformation. Meanwhile, James Astle, Washington bureau chief, sheds light on Doug Jones's political strategy, emphasizing moderates' roles in bridging divides within the Democratic Party. Their discussion also touches on the urgent crisis of air pollution, particularly its severe impact on children's health, urging immediate action to address this global threat.
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INSIGHT

China's Great Firewall

  • China's heavily censored internet, the "Great Firewall," stands in stark contrast to the initial vision of a free and open internet.
  • Many Western companies cannot operate within China due to these restrictions.
INSIGHT

Internet Fragmentation

  • Increasingly, countries implement unique internet regulations, fragmenting the online experience.
  • Singapore's "Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulations Act" exemplifies this trend with its broad definition of "fake news."
ADVICE

Navigating International Regulations

  • Tech companies operating internationally should anticipate increasing regulation and compliance demands.
  • They should invest in robust compliance departments, similar to international banks.
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