Consumer-oriented information society: Communitarian movement1) and antitrust actions against Microsoft

초록

This research is to examine the government policy models that shape the structure of communications and information industries. Two years ago, the U.S. Justice Department filed antitrust suit against Microsoft for unlawfully monopolizing computer software markets by bullying competitors to stifle competition. So far, prosecutors have succeeded in proving that the old Sherman Antitrust Act still applied to the world of high technology. A federal judge ordered the breakup of the Microsoft Corporation, saying the severe remedy was necessary. The most important implication of this trial is that the active government role is necessary to resolve the problems which might occur in the market constantly. In fact, US Justice Department has made it clear that a Microsoft case should be a vehicle to make the competitive ground rules for the New Economy. For the consumer-oriented information society, the government is required to set new definitions and standards for all products and business strategies in high technology industries. Therefore, the government actions would not only end the inherent opportunities for abuse of one company but also balance free-market vitality in the software industry. Consumers will benefit from better competition between companies that will result in better products, more innovations, and price reduction.