| As the history of mass communication has shown, the most fundamental conflict in communication often takes place between the outlook of the established authorities (responsible for maintaining the current order) and media demands for unrestricted freedom of expression. Thus, new technologies often play a vital role in readjusting the balance between the established authorities on the one hand and the public and media on the other.; In recent years information and communication technology (ICT) in China has been developing very rapidly. This development can be reflected through the increase in the number of Internet users and expansion of the Internet infrastructure. At the same time, the Chinese central government is trying to keep rigid control over the flow of information even as it attempts to open channels to the outside world. Potential challenges to the state may arise from Internet use in several areas: the mass public, civil society, the economy, and the international community. But contrary to some common assumptions that the development of ICT can pose an insurmountable threat to authoritarian rule, the Chinese government is finding ways to control and counter the political impact of Internet use. Both reactive and proactive measures are adopted by the Chinese government. Through these measures, the authoritarian regime can counter the challenge posed by Internet use and even utilize the Internet to extend its reach and authority.; Regarding Internet control in China, there are two dimensions related to the development of ICT. The first dimension is the positive aspect. The positive, legitimacy-boosting aspect of the Internet includes the promise of continued economic growth, streamlining of a heavy-handed bureaucracy and the introduction of electronic government services to the public. The other dimension is about the existing control policies that constrain some of the positive aspects just outlined, but more importantly also protect against any political opposition making itself heard, seen or read. In this study the controlling Internet policy in China will be analyzed within the complex social contexts of Chinese society. The relationships of different factors which influence the formation of China's current Internet policy will be identified. Furthermore the future trend of China's Internet policy will be projected. |
