The effects of network neutrality on the incentive to discriminate, invest, and innovate: a literature review

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to categorize network neutrality according to its issues under debate and assess the state of the debate based on such organization. In addition, the study discusses the reasons that network neutrality is so difficult to solve and the future research directions that would do so.

Design/methodology/approach

This study presents a critical review of the current network neutrality issues and summarizes the economic background of each position in the debate. The relevant literature is organized by issue to examine the reasons that the network neutrality debate is so difficult to solve and determine the further study required to solve it.

Findings

An analysis of the relevant literature suggests that the proponents and opponents of network neutrality disagree on the best methods of developing the Internet. Therefore, future research and regulatory and practitioners’ applications would greatly benefit from a comprehensive review of that literature.

Originality/value

Network neutrality regulation is receiving increased attention because the development and significant influences of the Internet are becoming more apparent.

Citation

Lee, D. and Shin, D.-H. (2016), "The effects of network neutrality on the incentive to discriminate, invest, and innovate: a literature review", info, Vol. 18 No. 3, pp. 42-57. https://doi.org/10.1108/info-12-2015-0053