Google: Ruler of the Internet?

Despite the common notion that Google wields immense power over the internet, particularly in the United States (US), this isn't entirely the case. Google is not the real government of the internet. To understand why, we must delve into the nature of Google’s influence and its origins.

Origins and Vision

Google’s founders, Larry Page and Sergey Brin, are known for their libertarian leanings. Initially, they aimed to create a tool that would democratize information access, making the internet more accessible and transparent. Their vision was to empower people with knowledge, not to assert control or governance over the internet.

While Google has indeed grown to be one of the most powerful tech companies in the world, it is important to distinguish between the power of a private company and governmental authority. Google’s influence is primarily technological and commercial. Its political power is generally less than that of other companies of similar size. This is underscored by the fact that Google itself has expressed no desire to become a piece of the political apparatus.

Google’s Role in the Internet Ecosystem

Google’s primary function is to find and display information. It doesn’t make laws or decisions. Instead, it offers tools and services that help users navigate the internet more efficiently. It helps people run their homes, phones, or tablets by providing useful applications and services. While it undoubtedly has a significant influence on how people use the internet, it is not a governing body.

Google’s Governance in Practice

From a technical standpoint, Google heavily influences internet norms through its algorithms, search results, and platform policies. It sets standards for web page ranking and search relevance. However, this influence is not necessarily governmental. Google’s policies, while impactful, are set within the framework of commercial and usability goals, not legal or regulatory ones.

Google has played a role in various policy debates and initiatives. For instance, it has been involved in discussions around data privacy, internet freedom, and antitrust concerns. However, these engagements reflect Google’s corporate interests rather than any broader governmental role.

Collaboration with Intelligence Agencies

There have been reports suggesting Google’s close ties with intelligence agencies, such as the CIA. However, these relationships are not indicative of Google taking on a governmental role. Google works with these agencies to provide technical support and compliance with legal requirements, but it does not engage in the sort of discretionary decision-making that governments do.

Google’s relationship with intelligence agencies is often structured around data collection and compliance with subpoenas or other legal demands. It is not a case of Google acting as a government but rather as a company providing a service or product that complies with existing legal frameworks.

Conclusion

In summary, Google is a powerful and influential player in the internet ecosystem, but it is not the government of the internet. Its role is primarily technical, commercial, and in providing services that enhance user experiences, rather than in making legislative or policy decisions. The real government of the internet remains the realm of regulatory bodies, lawmakers, and legal systems. Google’s influence stems from its technological capabilities and commercial prowess, not from any governmental aspirations.