To the Editor: Internet access may be a necessity, but not a 'right'
I was catching up on back issues of Mainebiz when I saw a quote from Kerem Durdag stating “internet access and affordability is a human right” (in a story, “GWI gets $9M in grant funding for high-speed internet in three towns”).
Not only is this incorrect, but it’s irresponsible journalism to pull this out as a highlight.
Human rights are those we are born with; they are inalienable. Human rights are things we have that impose no obligation on anyone else. Human rights are universal and timeless — as valid 200 years ago as 200 years from now.
Free speech is a human right; the right to communicate your thoughts and feelings imposes no obligation on anyone to listen.
Mr. Durdag might consider internet access and affordability as human necessities, but they are not rights.
The distinction is simple to make: Shelter, food and clothing are widely considered human necessities — but they are not human rights.
Robert Chatfield, President and CEO, Free To Choose Network
Cape Elizabeth
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