Google's done it again! The week, they released a new online tool called 'Google Transparency.' This new application is an online report that shows internet censorship around the world. And, like all things Google-related, this new tool is definitely holding the spotlight. Contrary to popular belief, countries like Iran and China aren't the only places that have internet censorship. Thanks to this new application, people are able to see that countries ranging from Germany to Turkey to Australia and even to Thailand, all have some type of internet censorship. Google Transparency includes an interactive map that shows how many requests countries have made for Google to block or remove content.Through this tool, users are also able to explore specific censorship instances. In Thailand, for example, Google was asked to remove YouTube videos that showed the Thai king, Bhumibol Adulyadej, with his feet near his head. Since their national law bans such offensive representations, they opted for the video to be removed, and Google agreed, however the video is still available in other countries. After "Everybody Draw Mohammed Day" (an online protest in support of free speech) earlier this year, Pakistan similarly blocked YouTube for 10 days, as Google Transparency shows. Google said it hopes Transparency will help shed light on how the internet differs from country to country, and on the efforts of nations to block internet content.
However, their are some flaws in Google Transparency. Data about how many times countries have asked Google to remove content, as well as how many times they have requested information about Google users, is not uniform. It also does not include China because providing such information is illegal under Chinese law.
Dorothy Chou, a Google policy analyst who worked on the project, said, "The openness and freedom that have shaped the internet as a powerful tool has come under threats from governments who want to control that technology," and hopes that Google Transparency will be able to protect this internet freedom.
So what are your thoughts on Google's latest tool? Sure, it proves that internet censorship is happening all across the globe. But what is it doing to prevent it?
4 comments:
I don't think it will do much to stop censorship but it does look like a fun tool to play around with. Ima go take a look at it, Brb. :)
I don't really understand wha the Google Transparency does or is....but if it protects the freedom of the internet, then i say go Google Transparency!
This new tool would be effective in keeping the public informed. Most of these countries will not change their habits or actions, but it allows the people to be able to see the truth in their government's actions. A government can change if enough people speak up. The internet is a new way for citizens to have a voice in the government. Though, currently this tool will not impact any policies, it may eventually contribute significantly to a law. Information is useful, and Google has always been on the forefront of keeping information together and easily accessible. As we move into the so-called Information Age, it is important to realize that companies like Google should keep an open profile on their activities. It is important for companies to do what is right, not necessarily for the most profit. Companies like Google, Microsoft or Apple have a big enough audience that what they say has an impact on other companies and citizens. This is one step closer to companies helping to put down immoral behaviors.
This is quite interesting tool. what actually surprises me is that Google would be allowed to make such a tool. Like if your a country who is censoring elements of the internet wouldn't you want this information hidden and internalized like China? I dunno maybe thats just my dictator side speaking. Anyways Props to Google for doing this although if you are really a halfway knowledgeable member of society I'd hope that it had already dawned upon you that censorship is quite common if not evident in almost every country.
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