Internet Architecture and Innovation

摘要

The open architecture of the Internet is widely regarded as a pre-condition for the innovative dynamics of the digital economy. Barbara van Schewick's bold and ambitious book attempts an in-depth analysis of how architectural choices affect the innovation system related to the Internet. Many of the book's arguments are relevant for the pressing issues of Internet governance but the analysis is particularly pertinent for the network neutrality debate. By offering a detailed examination of the technological and economic issues, the book can help to elevate this discussion and put it on a more solid conceptual basis. At the same time, the analysis as presented does not go far enough when exploring the diversity of innovation and the multi-faceted interrelations between architectural choices and the incentives of players to innovate. While the policy conclusions advanced in the book resonate with the tenor of the arguments, they do not reflect many contingencies that are also detailed in the book. Many recommendations, therefore, must be seen as educated guesses rather than findings derived from rigorous analysis.