Law

Internet Law and Regulation

Module code: M3111
Level 6
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Seminar
Assessment modes: Essay

On this module, you’ll explore the legal issues raised by the Internet.

You’ll examine:

  • key schools of thought on applying law to the Internet
  • the history of communications legislation in the UK and essential case law
  • the dual role of network users as consumers and citizens, including economic and human rights considerations
  • case law and legislation from the European Union and the Council of Europe
  • comparative analysis of US legislation and case law.

You’ll gain an understanding of domestic, European and international regulatory regimes that govern the Internet.

Module learning outcomes

  • Demonstrate a critical understanding of the competing philosophical perspectives on the application of law to the Internet
  • Evidence a critical understanding of Internet regulation.    
  • Demonstrate recognition of how the laws that pertain to the regulation of the Internet reflects rights-based (such as privacy and freedom of expression) issues.
  • Demonstrate an applied knowledge of the concept of intermediary platforms, the solution to liability concerns for different categories of ISPs, and the enforcement of content laws to the various categories of platform