As I write this post, the Internet is in a state of protest over the proposed SOPA and PIPA acts that in many opinions would give the government undue power to restrict and censor the Internet.
Of all the articles, commentaries, and op-eds, the one that struck the biggest chord with me was the one from Read Write Web's Joe Brockmeir, who wrote What I Wish Wikipedia and Others Were Saying About SOPA/PIPA
It's little wonder that Lamar Smith thought that he could push SOPA through despite widespread opposition from almost everyone involved in the tech industry.
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SOPA could not have gotten this far if the voting public was better informed and more active. It'd be nice to think that Congress will do the right thing by the public even if we don't keep an eye on it, but we should know better by now.
In my opinion this is hits the real problem square on the head.
Today's protests were a great way to raise awareness about a key issue, but the problem is, this isn't the only time congress should have our attention. Legislation like this happens basically every day because nobody in America is paying attention.
It doesn't end with this bill. every day congress is messing around with our freedoms, usually as a result of some special interest or corporation. Ant though it's nice that we can (and did!) come together on something huge like this, it's equally important to remain informed and continue to take action.
The reaction to the SOPA protests in getting people involved to contact their representatives is no doubt a great one, but guess what:
That's kind of how democracy is SUPPOSED to work, every single day.