John Oliver explains why net neutrality is really important, as only John Oliver can
HBO
Maybe John Oliver has found his post–Daily Show niche: Explaining boring or uncomfortable subjects in a way that makes sense and makes you laugh. On Sunday night's Last Week Tonight, Oliver tacked net neutrality, the idea that all legal content on the internet should be served up to your house on a level playing field. The Federal Communications Commission is considering new rules that would allow a two-tiered system. Oliver, like most net neutrality proponents, isn't impressed: "The point is, the internet in its current form is not broken, and the FCC is currently taking steps to fix that."
Oliver referenced Super Man, The Karate Kid, and other gems of pop culture because net neutrality sounds really dull, and "the cable companies have figured out the great truth of America: If you want to do something evil, put it inside something boring." If you want a primer on net neutrality, Oliver has what you need to know, served up in an entertaining package with opinion and the occasional profanity. He makes a compelling case for why should you pay attention to this debate, and (unless you're Comcast) which side you should come down on. --Peter Weber
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Peter has worked as a news and culture writer and editor at The Week since the site's launch in 2008. He covers politics, world affairs, religion and cultural currents. His journalism career began as a copy editor at a financial newswire and has included editorial positions at The New York Times Magazine, Facts on File, and Oregon State University.
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