Google and beyond

An article in today's Independent sets the basis for many themes that interest us: how Google, once the opener of doors, could now be seen as a monolith which could control access to information; without respect for copyright and rights to information, expression and education; and potentially raising competition questions. The article also, however, makes interesting points about the reality of business, corporate growth, consumer and corporate behaviour in an evolving industry and the need for changing business models.

A reminder of the place of constant awareness of the fine balance between IP, competition and human rights. Each of these, with their precarious interrelationship, will continue, after each wave of innovation, corporate power, and activist and consumer reaction has gone. And when one "problem" disappears, another will appear to fill market need or take the market in a new direction - this can lead to a power base, is likely to involve at least copyright and database rights, and can in turn have a negative implication on some human rights. The focus should be on the proper balance and delivering it, not merely on addressing specific issues - such as Google.