Dear Editor Keene,
The expression of opinion as free speech is being commoditized (commodified), and transformed into something bought and sold at the expense of its intrinsic value.
I value my privacy enough that I employ a computer/browser suite of filters and blockers to prevent any commercial content spying on me or reaching my eye. The Washington Times has contracted with DISQUS to provide a commercial forum for the expression of opinion, in which I can no longer participate for it's commercialization.
DISQUS merely exemplifies a host of such enterprises. I listen to talk radio streamed over the internet to my Island, too remote for any but expensive pop broadcasts to reach. Now the contractor employs Digital Rights Management protocols to commoditize the free speech opinion I once enjoyed.
An admission turnstyle is being built at the entrance to the forum and The Commons are being fenced off.
Respectfully,