The question of who invented the rules of the internet is complex, as there isn't a single inventor. Some trace these rules back to Chris Poole, the founder of 4chan.
The internet's "rules" are not formal, codified laws like those of a government, but rather an evolving collection of behaviors, etiquette, and guidelines that have emerged from online communities. Some of these are considered as:
- Observations: Things people have noticed and understand how they work online, like “Don’t feed the trolls.”
- Directives: Things that people should do or not do, like “Do not post personal information online”.
Chris Poole (also known as “moot”), founder of 4chan, is sometimes credited with defining these rules as some are traced back to the platform he created.
However, it's important to understand:
- No Central Authority: The internet is decentralized, lacking a single governing body.
- Evolving Nature: Internet rules are continuously changing as technology and online interactions develop.
- Community Driven: Many of the rules come from the online communities themselves.
While Poole may have codified or influenced some of the online culture and its guidelines, the idea of internet rules is more about collective behavior and shared understanding than a single inventor.
| Claimed Influencer | Reason | Caveat |
|---|---|---|
| Chris Poole | Founder of 4chan, a site associated with online etiquette and unwritten rules. | The 'rules' are more about collective behavior than a single invention. |
Ultimately, "the rules of the internet" are an evolving collection of unwritten practices and understandings, shaped by the actions and interactions of its users. While individuals like Chris Poole may have influenced them, no single person "invented" them.
