D2: FutureNet

Let me start by saying wow.....these are fascinating videos. Its interesting to hear the different perspectives from these authoritative figures on the future of the internet. It still blows my mind that:

• A) the internet is only 30 years old
• B) how powerful TCP/IP has proven to be

Similarities
Kelly's and Berner-Lee's visions share more similarities than Cerf's. First, Kelly's and Berner-Lee's ideas are more abstract and almost sound like science fiction at times. The next similarity is that both visionaries emphasize the concept of linked data. It interesting to think about the potential positive impacts of connecting data across machines, countries, and continents. Exhibit A = telemedicine.

Differences
Berner-Lee's style was more technical, and Kelly's was more artistic. Vint Cerf's presentation is more academic but very practical. Cerf's presentation also focused more on the network aspects of the Futurenet rather than the data aspects.

Soapbox
To be honest, the linked data conversation makes me paranoid. I'd rather not share my private, personal data with other individuals....and certainly not with billions of people over the internet. Kelly's "one machine" concept scares me too as it reminds me of the movie, Eagle Eye, a good film about a super computer that turns evil, tracks people's every move, and creates absolute chaos. Finally, the interplanetary network project and development of new protocols are very exciting. I'm very interested to see development in this area.

Thanks,

Davis