The gap between Congress and the Googleplex

The Arab Spring and the SOPA controversy are but two recent flashpoints that point to a growing trend. Thomas Friedman preceded the zeitgeist when he proclaimed "the world is flat." As the Internet and other communications networks shrink the earth, two groups remain worryingly distant: policy makers and software developers. The Hill and the Bay need to start listening to each other if we hope to reap a net benefit from this digital revolution. Beyond friendly brainstorming sessions, their discourse must inform and enlighten both sides.