On Rational Actors, Kevin and Tim discuss the FCC’s so-called “fast lane” regulatory proposal and what it means for net neutrality and Internet regulation. Can deregulation lead to more broadband competition? They analyze whether the deal between Comcast and Netflix threatens the future of open networks. Tim argues that a Comcast–Time Warner merger would make all of these problems worse. Could we someday cut the cord entirely and have all our content delivered by mobile broadband? Plus: Tim’s personal evolution on the necessity of at least some regulation to preserve the principles of the open Internet.
On Foreign Entanglements, Matt and Gissou discuss whether Iranian President Rouhani has fallen short on his promise to improve human rights. Could a nuclear deal empower Rouhani to pursue reforms? Should the West disentangle the nuclear and human rights issues? Has the United Nations played a constructive role? What about Iranian civil society? Do the Helsinki Accords offer a useful precedent for Iran’s reformers?