What is the biggest issue facing blogging, citizenship and the future of media?

So here it is: My very first Blog. A place where I can write absolutely anything with no regard for others' opinions - And that is just the problem. The biggest issue within the Blogosphere is one's lack of concern to his/her duties as a citizen. None of the information on the Internet is filtered, as it is with other media. This allows anyone with Internet access to express any malicious or offensive thoughts to the public, with no fear of being prosecuted as a result.

The Criminal Code of Canada protects us from the attacks and offenses of others. These laws provide that each citizen is respected and taken care of in regards to his/her own needs. In the Blogosphere, this security eludes us. Section 163 of the Criminal Code protects us from the corruption of morals. For example, a Canadian citizen would be prosecuted for racially discriminating against another individual, but within Blogging this would never happen. It is extremely difficult to implement such rules in the realm of the Blogosphere. This is where another issue is recognized - Whether the laws of one's country can govern a place of no time or space - the Internet. Although it may not be illegal for one to Blog about whatever he/she wishes, it may not necessarily be morally or ethically correct. It is impossible to enforce such rules in the Blogosphere, but by natural law, it is necessary for us to respect our fellow human beings.

We're all aware of the inaccuracies in the media, but the Internet is still a common place where we acquire information. Since people of all ages use the Internet, it is more than likely young children will stumble upon derogatory information posted on someone's Blog. As this child is building his/her foundations of beliefs, these Blog entries can definitely have an influence. It is our duty as citizens to be aware of the information we're posting. It is essential we recognize whether or not we're fulfilling our duty as citizens, but more importantly our duty as human beings.

The future of the media will ultimately call of our constant discretion as we are presented with possible offensive and misguided material.