The internet and modern technology have opened up worlds I couldn't have even comprehended when I first lost my sight. Back in the early 90s, who could have ever thought blind folks would some day be able to read any newspaper on the day it was issued? Or have the ability to download music without ever going to a CD store? Or send E mail messages instantaneously, confidentially and, of course, for free? Certainly not me!
However, the net brings along its own set of problems. Flip on any news station and, almost daily, we hear about some sicko pervert using his computer to stalk down children.
One major complain I have of the web is the issue of anonymity.
Anyone can say anything about anyone they wish – and there's just now barely, barely starting to become some punishment for this cowardly act.
There is a fairly new web site aimed at college students that showcases everything bad about the net. I'm not going to give the name of this site because I don't want to publicize their pathetic mission.
This site is basically an E version of the bathroom wall at the student union. College students are encouraged to talk smack about their fellow students; who's the sluttiest girl on campus, who has the best weed, who's the biggest stoner, who's the biggest drunk, who's got the most recent spread of V.D., etc.
Of course, if you're slandered on the site, you have no ability to erase the claims nor find out who wrote them! This means anyone can make any claim, true or not, about anyone they wish! God help the guy/girl who angers an ex-lover if that ex has an ax to grind!
Well, in a showing of some great leadership, Columbia University has taken the big step of banning this site from being able to appear on any campus computer. Sure, students may have their own laptops with which they can utilize this ridiculous site, but they won't be doing it via the university's property.
Props to Columbia for a great showing of integrity and leadership!
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