Communication Quote by Lynne Schrum
““What we know today as the Internet (and the visual component of the World Wide Web) evolved from military to academic to commercial interests. In the 1970s, the U.S. Department of Defense wanted a secure communications system that could survive disasters. In the 1980s, the National Science Foundation (NSF) funded a network so that scientists at major universities could communicate and share research. In 1990, NSF announced a plan for privatization.””
About This Quote
Source Article: History of the Internet, Lynne Schrum, 2018
The Internet evolved from military security needs to academic collaboration, then to commercial privatization.
In simple terms: Internet grew from defense to academia to business.
Recognize the layered origins of today’s web.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- defense communications
- university networks
- startup ecosystems
- policy making
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this history affect current internet governance?
- What lessons can guide future digital infrastructure?
Commercial motives can conflict with open access ideals.