Why did President Obama appoint Tom Wheeler to head the FCC?

[Armstead]

129. There are complexities and dilemmas for sure....

But bottom line I think is straightforward.

If we, as a society are to rely so totally on the Internet for communication, commerce, entertainment and so many other purposes, the backbone should be defined as a vital public service, first and foremost. Like water, electric power, etc.

It is becoming The Modern Commons, a public resource.

It should be regulated as that. The details could be a mix, as something like electric power has been over the years. Combinations of heavily regulated private enterprises, quasi-public providers, municipal or regional authorities, etc.

But ultimately, instead of powerful corporations calling all of the shots, we have to build in accountability and public goals into the system.

The trend towards deregulation and privatization of everything in the last 40 years has changed our mindset to believe that everything is now Private Orofit Uber Alles. But we should remember that it IS possible to make providers of vital services ACCOUNTABLE TO THE PUBLIC INTEREST, not only to the whims of shareholders.

This may sound "old farty," but I can remember when electricity was such a regulated utility. There were electric companies that had de-facto monopolies, but they had to follow guidelines and -- while making a profit -- had to justify rate increases, etc. Electric companies were known as solid investments for shareholders (which were open to many levels). They didnlt make flashy quartly gains, but they provided steady solid income.

Such systems are not perfect either. They are subject to corruption, abuses, lx oversight, etc. But at least the baseline is public service.

That has to be the basis of the Internet. if we blow that, and allow Big Monry to blow smoke up our butt yet again, we'll have blown a golden opportunity.