Communications technologies affect every aspect of civic and commercial life. In the digital age, they are also changing at a blistering pace. How does law and policy keep up? We will explore the frameworks governing wired, wireless, and space communications. In particular, we will consider what past practices mean as technology continues to evolve and how legal and regulatory models can both foster and constrain innovation. Subjects considered will include universal service obligations, network nondiscrimination, spectrum licensing, broadcast media, and satellite services as well as the role of administrative decision-making in developing the future of policies governing these technologies. Elements used in grading: Attendance, class participation, final writing assignment.
1 units · Law Mandatory P/R/F
Communications technologies affect every aspect of civic and commercial life. In the digital age, they are also changing at a blistering pace. How does law and policy keep up? We will explore the frameworks governing wired, wireless, and space communications. In particular, we will consider what past practices mean as technology continues to evolve and how legal and regulatory models can both foster and constrain innovation. Subjects considered will include universal service obligations, network nondiscrimination, spectrum licensing, broadcast media, and satellite services as well as the role of administrative decision-making in developing the future of policies governing these technologies. Elements used in grading: Attendance, class participation, final writing assignment.
Offered in Winter 2026 at Stanford University.