Zuckerberg blasts ‘extreme definition’ of net neutrality

Facebook chief executive Mark Zuckerberg argued against an “extreme definition” of network neutrality while announcing the expansion of a program to bring basic Internet service to people around the world.

“Some may argue for an extreme definition of net neutrality that says that it’s somehow wrong to offer any more services to support the unconnected, but a reasonable definition of net neutrality is more inclusive,” Zuckerberg said in a video announcing the expansion. “Access equals opportunity. Net neutrality should not prevent access.” Pointing out that around 4 billion people are not connected, he added, “It’s not an equal Internet if the majority of people can’t participate.” Facebook points out that websites participating in the program do not pay to be included. “Are we a community that values people and improving people’s lives above all else, or are we a community that puts the intellectual purity of technology above people’s needs?” Zuckerberg asked. Facebook said it has always planned to expand the program. Firms wishing to participate must create features to encourage the exploration of the broader Internet, must remove video and high-resolution photos and meet other specifications.