From ARPANET to Modern Surveillance

This chapter traces the origins of the ARPANET, detailing its military inception in the 1960s and the evolving role of computer technology in communication and surveillance. It emphasizes the duality of technological advancements, initially designed for military purposes but later adapted for civilian use, highlighting early concerns over government surveillance practices. The narrative explores the transformation of public perception regarding the internet, from an oppressive tool to a symbol of democracy, while revealing ongoing privacy concerns tied to its militaristic roots.