Control of the Internet

How far the internet has traveled. From a small US military funded research network to an international network that is increasingly becoming the road of commerce, and just about everything else imaginable. Through this incredible growth, the United States has maintain control over the network -- their network -- even as it has moved beyond their borders, both physical and digital. With recent moves, the US has been moving to reiterate their dominion over the internet.

I'm of two minds on this. The internet was created in the United States, for the United States. It's theirs -- but not the network beyond their borders, and they should not have dominion over the extended network. It's about control. Right now I trust the intentions of the US, but I'm becoming increasingly concerned with where their society is heading. Control of the internet is power, and the US lives in uncertain times. Would they ever use the control they have over the internet to extend their views, policies and values? I think the use of the power would be too tempting for some future US government.

At the same time, I don't trust ICANN's commitment to democracy and independence -- nor do I trust the effectiveness and independence of the UN. It's a conundrum.