Putting the genie back in the bottle

THE WORLD has never caught up with the internet.

Two stories this summer show how governments and the general population have been unable to adapt to the demands of this new technology and the possibilities — both good and ill — of a global exchange of information.

There was outrage when it emerged that intelligence services on both sides of the Atlantic had been collecting internet users’ data.

Now Prime Minister David Cameron has announced plans to curb access to online pornography.

On one hand, many users are appalled, although perhaps unsurprised, that governments have been snooping on their online activities.

On the other few would disagree that more must be done to protect people — especially minors — from the worst the internet has to offer.

It seems as if every day it is possible to read a court case involving someone found guilty of downloading or sharing the most horrific sexual images, often involving children.

Even what can be termed as “regular” pornography, featuring consenting adults, has the potential to cause harm.

Children are viewing pornographic material at an earlier age than ever before and there are fears this is warping how they view relationships and their own bodies. But policing the internet will be easier said than done. Search engine companies are resistant to the proposal to filter out certain search terms. Similarly, a plan to put a block on all new computers that restricts adult materials merely replicates blocks adults can already install.

Mr Cameron is right to express his concern about the ease with which people can access the most horrific of images but “draining the market” of these will be easier said than done.