In other news, the Orwellian named "net neutrality" officially ends today, and the more accurately named "free-er market internet" may begin operations.
If you want the Economics 101 version of what this is really all about:
The people responsible for building, maintaining and operating the information superhighway want to provide drivers a faster commute. They have the technology to do it--but they can't pay for it and generate enough income to gain a return on their investment. After all, they're a business and they have stockholders (you, if you have a 401(k) plan).
So, the superhighway people want to erect tollbooths to get the users pay for part of it. Those who don't (or can't) pay the toll can still get where they're going but it might take longer than the paying customers, especially during rush hour.
No one gets slowed down. But the people who pay more go faster.
Some other people said, "that's not fair--people who can't afford the faster route will have to choose between faster internet or food for their babies!" or something. They couldn't get a law passed to stop this free market stuff, so they got it through royal decree. They called this 'net neutrality,' because the fast lane of the information superhighway shouldn't discriminate between those who can pay for it and those who can't. Everyone should have to... drive ... ... at the ... ... same .... slow... ... speed.
Except certain people with lots and lots of money and power and political influence. You know... the ruling class.
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