On the Regulation of Speech in Cyberspace: An Economic Perspective

There are two approaches on regulations of speech in cyberspace in Taiwan. One is regulation on the supply side, namely Internet Content Rating Mechanism; the other is regulation on the demand side, namely Preventing Improper Information from TANet Plan. With the costs and benefits analysis, it is found that preventing speech receivers from specific information is much better because it would not discourage the supply of speech. The approaches adopted in Australia, European Commission and America may support this argument. It is recommended that we shall make the public aware of the Internet safety issues, and encourage them to employ the technology (such as filters) to prevent children from accessing the improper information in cyberspace.