Bob Whalen slm521mc – Filtering Elective
Pros, Cons, and
Filtering Concerns
PROS
- Adults
can restrict/limit what is available to their children on the Internet
depending on the age of the child.
- Some
filtering programs align with Web site names and inappropriate names. Other filtering programs screen words
that contain obscene or pornographic material contained in the site. Filtering appeals to many because it
supposedly allows peace of mind for adults by creating a controlled
environment for kids.
- Contouring
sites allow links to other sites, but access is limited to approved
sites. Again this allows some
Internet freedom, but still provides a protective environment.
- PICS
(Platform for Internet Content Selection) is working on a content rating
system by the originators of the website to fine tune filtering.
CONS
- Filtering
of programs and software limit certain kinds of adult material on the
Internet.
- Filters
will have mistakes.
- Filters
block freedom of speech. First amendment rights are being challenged under
the Children’s Protection Act, which requires blocking software on public
libraries for all patrons of all ages.
- There
is concern about the subjects that filters block out, which can amount to
censorship. Censorship by the government in a free society is very
questionable. Some sites are
deliberately blocked, which denies access to information for all.
- Filtering
programs can be very expensive for school systems as well as libraries.
CONCERNS
- One
needs to maintain a balance between freedom and control depending on the
age and maturity of the user. You
need a balance protecting the child and the rights of the parents. You
want to maintain a balance between undesirable material and freedom to
take on responsibility and allow healthy curiosity.
- The
best way to protect child safety is to supervise children when they are
online. No system can be fully
“kid-proofed”. There is no
substitute for parent/teacher guidance.