ABSTRACT
This conclusion presents some closing thoughts on the concept discussed in the preceding chapters of this book. The book argues that people should focus on institutional change because it allows to watch a government's response to contested policy issues such as regulating Internet content or environmental protection. It explores the tension surrounding liberal-democratic values. The book shows that conservative values about personal responsibility and extolling the social and economic benefits of stable marriages influenced the ways in which the government sought to regulate the institution of marriage. It presents some case studies that have shown the plurality of values in society, the conflicts and contradictions between those values and the variable pace and extent of institutional reform. The book describes the debate between 'cyberians' who uphold the values of self-regulation and 'cyber sceptics' who insist government has a role in 'preserving important values' and ensuring 'what's illegal off-line should be illegal on-line'.
