There Ought to Be a Law

Any discussion concerning the challenges of parenting in the age of the Internet at some point usually involves someone will come out in favor of stronger laws to protect our children. While I can certainly relate to the urge to make things better, I'm also beginning to realize the full complexity of these problems.

First off, while I'm no legal expert, it seems to me that the existing laws do a reasonably effective job in this country. (See the US Department of Justice Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section website for a good overview of current federal laws) Child abuse is a problem that is actively worked on by our society and we have comprehensive laws that cover most if not all of these types of situations that involve communication technologies.

But it is those very technologies that present both the wonderful opportunity for learning and entertainment that also provide a mechanism for criminals to get around the laws of any one nation. While we may attempt to "run the bad guys out of town" in the United States, this usually means they simply set up shop elsewhere and their content is just as accessible. The sad part is that "elsewhere" is often in countries that we consider to be our strong allies. Many European and Asian nations have very permissive obscenity laws.

The US often puts pressure on other nations for economic reform that is in line with the supposed interests of our country. Economic issues are certainly important, but I feel it is time that we also begin a strong effort to work with our allies and trading partners to address both computer security and the threats to children online. This should be an issue at the forefront of our diplomatic efforts. Some progress is being made towards this goal, but much more could be done.

So I urge you to bring up this issue as we move into the next political season. Contact your congressman to voice your opinion on these matters. If enough of us make this a priority, I believe that sooner or later our government will respond.