Meaning: The quote "It's been my policy to view the Internet not as an 'information highway,' but as an electronic asylum filled with babbling loonies" by Mike Royko encapsulates a sentiment that was prevalent in the early days of the internet. Mike Royko was a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and columnist known for his acerbic wit and skepticism towards new technologies. In this quote, he expresses a cynical view of the internet, likening it to an asylum filled with nonsensical voices and chaotic information rather than a structured and organized "information highway."

This quote reflects a prevalent attitude towards the internet in its early years. When the internet first became accessible to the general public in the 1990s, it was a relatively unregulated and untamed space. This lack of regulation led to a proliferation of unverified information, conspiracy theories, and pseudoscience, which contributed to the perception of the internet as a chaotic and unpredictable environment. Moreover, the anonymity afforded by the internet allowed individuals to express extreme and often irrational views without fear of repercussion, further contributing to the perception of the online space as a haven for "babbling loonies."

As the internet evolved, so did the perception of it. Over time, efforts were made to regulate and organize the vast amount of information available online. Search engines, social media platforms, and other online tools emerged to help users navigate the vast expanse of the internet and find reliable information. Additionally, the rise of fact-checking organizations and initiatives aimed at promoting digital literacy have contributed to a more nuanced understanding of the internet as a source of both valuable information and misinformation.

Despite these developments, Royko's quote still holds relevance in the contemporary digital landscape. The internet remains a space where misinformation and extreme viewpoints can proliferate, and the challenge of distinguishing between credible and dubious sources of information persists. The concept of the internet as an "electronic asylum" continues to resonate with those who are wary of the unfiltered and often overwhelming nature of online discourse.

In conclusion, Mike Royko's quote reflects a historical perspective on the early days of the internet, characterized by a sense of chaos and unpredictability. While the internet has evolved and efforts have been made to organize and regulate online content, the sentiment captured in Royko's quote still resonates in the contemporary digital landscape. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges of navigating the vast and diverse online space, and the importance of critical thinking and digital literacy in consuming information on the internet.