How the Internet Transformed Communication and Commerce
Episode Description
Wharton professor Kevin Werbach reflects on the history, impact, and future of the internet as part of Knowledge at Wharton's "American Business Innovation" series ahead of the USA's 250th anniversary. Werbach explains how the internet evolved from a government research network into the digital platform that powers modern business, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence.
Werbach is a professor and the department chairperson of Legal Studies & Business Ethics at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. In addition to his influential work on telecommunications and internet policy, he is a pioneer in the emerging field of gamification: applying digital game-design techniques to business. His book, For the Win: How Game Thinking Can Revolutionize Your Business (with Dan Hunter) was published in 2012, and over 220,000 students worldwide have registered for his Massive Open Online Course (MOOC). He was named Wharton’s first “Iron Prof” in 2010.
ABOUT THE SERIES As the United States marks its 250th anniversary, hear from Wharton faculty experts as they explore the American business innovations that transformed industries, reshaped markets, and changed the way the world works. From the assembly line and modern branding to the internet and artificial intelligence, this series examines the ideas and institutions that helped define American enterprise and continue to influence business today.
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Brief Summary
The episode covers the internet's evolution, its role in business, and its impact on AI development.
Key points
- The Birth of the Internet. The internet emerged as a revolutionary interconnected network built on open protocols.
- AI's Dependency on the Internet. AI technology would not have emerged as it has without the internet's infrastructure.
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Episode highlights
- The Birth of the InternetThe internet emerged as a revolutionary interconnected network built on open protocols.“It was a source of tremendous excitement at that point.”1:02Jun 22, 2026
- AI's Dependency on the InternetAI technology would not have emerged as it has without the internet's infrastructure.“AI as we know it today could emerge because of the internet.”2:24Jun 22, 2026
