Regulating cyberspace: concepts and controversies

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of some issues and controversies surrounding arguments for regulating cyberspace.Design/methodology/approachThe paper begins with a brief investigation of some background questions such as “What is cyberspace?” and “What is meant by ‘regulation’?” It then considers some distinctions between descriptive and normative aspects of questions involving internet regulation. Next, the paper examines Lawrence Lessig's model, which describes four modes of regulation that can be applied to cyberspace. The paper then considers some recent controversies that have emerged because of “regulation by code” and the “privatization of information policy.”FindingsCyberspace regulation raises ethical concerns.Research limitations/implicationsInternet regulation is evolving.Originality/valueThe way cyberspace is viewed, either as a “place” or as a “medium,” affects how it will be regulated.