Filter Discussion

[CMUNSON]

     I think this could be an acceptable compromise as long as everything 
     was clearly labeled and that those who wanted access to the full 
     Internet weren't penalized. You could have signs that said:
     
     "Pornographic sites blocked on this workstation"
     
     "This workstation has access to the full Internet, including 
     pornography. You have been warned."
     
     I don't like this, but this could be a compromise that many could live 
     with. Could the politicians live with this? 
     
     I still believe that censorware has no business being in our 
     libraries, since it has been shown from real incidents that this 
     technology can easily be abused, to the detriment of free speech.
     
     Chuck


______________________________ Reply Separator _________________________________
Subject: Re: Filter Discussion
Author:  "Gilbert; Richard A" <RAGilbert at ems.jsc.nasa.gov> at Internet
Date:    4/29/97 12:49 PM


Does this have to be an all or nothing discussion?  In a library with 
several Internet Access computers, it would certainly be possible to 
install filtering programs/ blocking programs on some computers and 
leave unrestricted access on others.  This compromise, while it might 
chafe many on either side of the debate, does provide the public (the 
customer) with a choice.  It is evident that at least some of the public 
want to be able to search the Internet using a filter program.
     
As much as we embrace the concept of free speech, librarians do have to 
realize that all freedoms are tempered by society's acceptance.  If the 
profession refuses to compromise, I fear we will find a solution forced 
down our throats by someone else.