Authenticity of Information in Cyberspace: Iq

The phenomenon of information in cyberspace can be likened to an almost limitless library where anyone can upload any information for the public to read. To live up to our belief in freedom of expression such openness should be defended as long as the material is not aimed at fomenting communal hatred, inciting violence and affecting public opinion. Lack of control and ease of publication signifies that a fair proportion of the cyber information is unauthentic. Internet is a selfregulated system and inhibits semantic, pragmatic and social barriers, which have the ability to create swings in cognitive styles and beliefs of its users. The essential problem here is how to establish authenticity of the available information. One way a website can enjoy authenticity is to earn it the hard way, like Amazon.com. Another way is to have explicit endorsements by individuals who are widely trusted for their competence, or organizations that are well known for their commitment to excellence, ethics and a sound track record of achievements. The third way is to gave accreditation by individuals and/or organizations that enjoy high level of respectability and confidence. This paper illustrates the point that reality in the cyberspace depends very much on the real physical world for it to be taken seriously and to function properly. The issue of authenticity, therefore, has significant implications for the roles of the state, established commercial and non-commercial organizations as well as socially committed individuals who have a track record of professional achievements.