Logistical Instructions:
Complete your assignment in a Microsoft Word or Adobe PDF document of 3-4 pages. Use double line spacing, 11- or 12-point font, and standard margins.
Make sure your name is on the document.
This assignment can be completed in the form of an essay, with your own opinions on the issue; combined with knowledge from class discussions and some basic online research.
Your grade will be based on two equal factors: 1) the viability of your opinion, and 2) spelling, grammar, and consistency.
Upload/attach your completed Word or PDF document in CANVAS. Go to the Assignments page, then open the page for Current Events Paper #2. Use the Submit button to upload your document.
No late submissions will be accepted. Even though you can upload your paper into the CANVAS drop box by as late as 11:00 PM, do not assume that CANVAS, your computer, or your internet connection will be working perfectly at 10:59.
Paper Requirements:
Select one of the topics below, and read the short Benton.org report that is given for that topic.
Find at least two longer and more in-depth recent articles about the issue in question. [Hint: These can sometimes be found by clicking on links in the Benton reports.] The longer stories you find must be fully cited in your paper and should be used to back up your arguments.
Start your paper with a short summary that describes the issue in detail.
Address some or all of the following:
Identify the social problem, political controversy, and/or market failure that is at the root of the issue.
Why might the public, or a portion of the public, believe that there should be a governmental solution to the issue? Or, is there really a problem at all?
Is it practical or necessary for government to find a solution to the controversy or problem? If so, who in government would be able to offer a solution? Or, who/what outside of government could offer a solution?
Consider proposing your own solution, but be sure to discuss whether it would be practical or realistic.
Select one of the following topics for your paper:
Topic A: Internet Monopolies
Start with this recent story at Benton.org:
Americas Monopoly Problem, Explained by Your Internet Bill
Topic B: Flawed FCC Broadband Data
Start with this recent story at Benton.org:
Frustrated by Flawed Broadband Maps, States Are Trying to Create Their Own
Topic C: Open-Access Internet in New York City
Start with this recent story at Benton.org:
Can New York City Fix What Ails American Broadband?
