I'm not kidding. The Post actually printed a column bemoaning the fact that people have alternatives to news outlets like the Post, CBS, NPR, etc. And it's solution to this terrifying problem is protectionism, which it is hoping will come in the form of higher energy prices. Fortunately, the author's understanding of computers and networks is not much better than their understanding of the media. While many computers and networks are energy hogs, it is not difficult to design much more energy efficient systems. These already exist and their price is falling rapidly, so at least this type of protectionism will not prolong the life of failing mainstream media outlets. The fact that sort of column can be given such prominence in a top newspaper demonstrates clearly the need for alternatives.
--Dean Baker
