Final answer:
Net neutrality is the principle that all Internet data should be treated equally by Internet service providers, without discriminating based on source or content, akin to utilities like electricity and water. This ensures an open internet without artificially created fast and slow lanes, and it's protected by FCC's Open Internet rules.
Step-by-step explanation:
The principle that individuals should be free to access all content and applications equally, regardless of the source, without Internet service providers discriminating against specific online services or websites is known as Net Neutrality. This concept is crucial for maintaining an open and egalitarian Internet where every user can enjoy the same level of access to websites and online services, without any form of prioritization that benefits few at the expense of many. Net neutrality ensures there are no artificially created "fast" and "slow" lanes that benefit companies with deeper pockets who could afford to pay for faster service delivery, potentially driving smaller competitors out of business.
Net neutrality is akin to the way utilities like electricity and water are provided. Just as these services are expected to be distributed indiscriminately, without favor to any user over another, proponents of net neutrality argue that Internet service should follow a similar model of non-discrimination. Viewed through the lens of conflict perspective theory, without net neutrality protections, there's a risk that larger corporations like Amazon could monopolize optimal service, while small, local businesses suffer, altering the competitive landscape in their favor.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has set forth Open Internet rules that preserve net neutrality by preventing broadband providers from blocking or throttling lawful content and from creating special "fast lanes." These rules aim to keep the Internet fair and open, allowing consumers and innovators alike to use and develop services without prohibitive restrictions.