The internet was supposed to be free. What went wrong?

Thirty years ago, countercultural thinkers declared the internet an independent space. Today, it's controlled by a handful of corporations.

Key takeaways

Quick scan — what you need to know:

• Thirty years ago, countercultural thinkers declared the internet an independent space.
• Today, it's controlled by a handful of corporations.
• Were we deceived?

Background

What led here, in plain terms:

• Today, it's controlled by a handful of corporations.
• Were we deceived?

Why it matters

Why readers and decision-makers should care:

• Were we deceived?
• Thirty years ago, countercultural thinkers declared the internet an independent space.
• Today, it's controlled by a handful of corporations.