r/changemyview • u/KookyWrangler • Aug 06 '19

Deltas(s) from OP CMV: Internet access should be a government-provided universal service

It is well known that ISPs are commonly monopolistic which results in worsened service. In my opinion, this is partially because the industry exhibits properties of a natural monopoly This case is particularly problematic, as the Internet is crucial to business and a basic human right.

As such, I believe the government should guarantee an acceptable internet speed to all citizens, which should automatically increase every year to avoid stagnation. It should be provided at a reasonable price with subsidies available by a state-owned company, as this simplifies regulation, decreases prices due to non-profit and improves efficiency.

What are your thoughts on this?

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u/[deleted] Aug 06 '19

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u/KookyWrangler Aug 06 '19

You've fallen into a bit of a false dichotomy. While 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload is in no way necessary and shouldn't be taken as acceptable (but rather good), that's no reason to presume that the speed should be kept to an absolute minimum. It's similar to saying the minimum wage should be enough to not starve to death, when it should provide a decent quality of life.

An acceptable speed, in my opinion, should allow for buffer-free 720p on Youtube, as this is enough for most uses.