Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/internetgiants
In today’s digital world, understanding the interplay between technology and law is more vital than ever. Coursera’s course, “Internet Giants: The Law and Economics of Media Platforms,” offers an in-depth exploration of how media platforms have evolved over the decades and the legal implications that accompany these technological advancements.
### Course Overview
This seven-week course, although originally launched in July 2015, remains a valuable resource for those looking to comprehend the regulatory landscape that governs major tech companies like Microsoft and Google. The course takes a comprehensive look at the U.S. legal framework while comparing it to international laws, primarily in Europe, allowing for a broad understanding of how technology is managed across different jurisdictions.
### Syllabus Breakdown
Each week tackles a unique aspect of media platforms:
1. **Introduction:** A primer on the relationship between law and technology.
2. **Microsoft:** Discusses the rise of Microsoft, its antitrust battles in the U.S. and Europe, and how these issues shaped the tech industry.
3. **Google:** Traces Google’s ascension to power, focusing on underlying technology, two-sided markets, and antitrust investigations.
4. **Smartphones:** Examines the smartphone revolution, focusing on government policies and major industry players like Apple and Android.
5. **Network Neutrality:** Delves into the debates around network neutrality and its impact on the open internet.
6. **Music Distribution:** A historical look at music distribution technologies from the phonograph to the digital age, including the influence of platforms like Spotify.
7. **Video Delivery:** Covers the evolution of video delivery platforms, copyright implications, and the digital transformation of TV.
8. **Digital Books:** Discusses Google Books, Amazon Kindle, and the implications of digital libraries and ebook platforms.
9. **Course Review:** Detailed recap and synthesis of the material covered throughout the course.
10. **Experimental Module:** A forward-looking module that invites exploration of new ideas and interactions in the realm of technology and law.
### Final Thoughts
While the course content may not reflect the most recent developments after its last update in 2015, the foundational understanding it provides about the intersection of law and technology is invaluable. The course is particularly recommended for students of law, tech enthusiasts, and professionals looking to navigate the complex legal landscapes influenced by media platforms.
Despite the dated nature of some material, the principles and case studies covered are timeless. As technology continues to evolve, so too will the laws governing it, and understanding these earlier developments can provide important context.
Overall, I recommend “Internet Giants: The Law and Economics of Media Platforms” for anyone looking to delve into how legal frameworks shape technological progress and cultural evolution.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/internetgiants