In 1998, university professor Kembrew McLeod trademarked the phrase "freedom of expression" as a comment on the current state of intellectual property law and the exchange of ideas. His book of the same title has been published under a Creative Commons license. (Image courtesy of Prof. Kembrew McLeod.)
Instructor(s)
Dr. David D. Clark
Dr. Frank Field
Sharon E. Gillett
Dr. William Lehr
MIT Course Number
ESD.68J / 6.978J
As Taught In
Spring 2006
Level
Graduate
Course Description
Course Features
Course Description
This course provides an introduction to the technology and policy context of public communications networks, through critical discussion of current issues in communications policy and their historical roots. The course focuses on underlying rationales and models for government involvement and the complex dynamics introduced by co-evolving technologies, industry structure, and public policy objectives. Cases drawn from cellular, fixed-line, and Internet applications include evolution of spectrum policy and current proposals for reform; the migration to broadband and implications for universal service policies; and property rights associated with digital content. The course lays a foundation for thesis research in this domain.