Interconnectivity

Author:

Agnes Li, Dequan Wang, John Palfrey, Shel Woodruff, William Fisher

Subject:

Social Sciences

Institution Name:

Berkman Center for Internet and Society

Collection:

Harvard Law School

Grade Level:

Post-secondary

Abstract:

The Internet is a vast network that connects many smaller groups of linked computer networks, on and through which information is stored and transmitted. The "interconnected" character of the Internet is one of the things that makes it so popular and powerful in facilitating communication and electronic commerce. However, "interconnectivity" has also given rise to increasing legal controversy and turmoil. Various methods of enhancing or exploiting the web-like structure of the Internet have been attacked as violations of others' intellectual property or other proprietary rights. In this module, we will consider the current status of those controversies. The Case Study explores in some detail one recent case of this general sort. The Readings then examine the histories of some related dimensions of "interconnectivity."

Course Type:

Learning Module

Languages:

English

Material Type:

Readings

Media Format:

Text/HTML, Downloadable docs

Conditions of Use:

Custom Permissions
Please be advised that if you choose to reprint the module materials, you are responsible for asking permission of the individual authors in concordance with U.S. copyright law.