The Justice Department’s investigation into the online gambling industry is a sign of increasing willingness by U.S. authorities to extend their jurisdiction well beyond the traditional limits. This type of action is not unprecedented in the U.S.’s attempts to deal with the illicit transnational economy. However, in this case, authorities have targeted the investors, the money behind the operations. Importantly, the case shows just how vulnerable many internet websites and businesses are to an attack on their finances. While many see the internet as a completely free network of exchange and communication - offering a great deal of hope for those who don’t have the money or means to get their message across conventional media channels - the reality is that money still dominates the means of production and communication. The net is not quite as free as is often assumed. The Justice Department’s “war of intimidation” has already resulted in the arrest of several top executives of foreign-based online casinos, as well as the decision by many others to cease doing business with U.S. residents.

This investigation could have wide-ranging consequences for the free exchange of ideas on the web. As a lawyer in the article observed, “the development was disconcerting because the prevailing wisdom had been that investment in a company that is legal and licensed in its jurisdiction was not grounds for prosecution.” It is troubling that a government would attempt to prosecute against something it does not like, in a place where it is legal. While it’s easy to stomach it when the target is online gambling or child pornography, it would be less acceptable if the target were a government’s critics in another country. The article also points to the effectiveness of government regulation, even in this new age of global media (where, presumably, one nation’s ability to control the media should be diminished). Global communication almost always requires money, at some point in the process. If you cut out the money, you cut out the communication. As a result of this investigation, investors may be more squeamish about investing their money in global enterprises, businesses, and media, for fear of running afoul of a particular nation’s regulations, and subsequently facing prosecution.

A bit about me:
I’m a senior Political Science (IR Track) concentrator, with a strong background in International Relations theory. I would say I’m also a bit of an MCM enthusiast, having taken courses on film theory, critical theory, animation/manga, and African cinema. I’m very interested in new media, its theorization, its impact on discourse. I’m particularly interested in blogs, as I have several of my own and follow countless others – I’m very excited about the class blog! I’m also an experienced YouTuber – I have some videos uploaded and I have some experience exploring the “YouTube community.” I’m familiar with message boards, wikis, listservs, etc. etc. I’m also very interested in film theory and contemporary film. I have a familiarity with global cinemas, especially those in Asia and Africa. I'm excited to explore the ways in which these different types of new media have changed global discourses on war, peace, and politics.