UCLA Never Claimed to Be Sole Parent of the Internet

Regarding “Many Deserve Credit for Creating the Internet,” (Oct. 11):

As a holder of three UCLA degrees, of course I am generally proud of my alma mater. However, I feel that you have taken an undeserved cheap shot at our school, attributing to it in your article an attitude that it has not demonstrated in the press or elsewhere.

The UCLA campus and researchers had an important role in the development of the Internet, but nowhere has the school claimed that it was the sole inspiration for the Net. In a recent alumni magazine article, it was stated by all, most especially Dr. [Leonard] Kleinrock, that the Internet was the result of the combined efforts of many individuals, some on various campuses, and many in the private sector. At a recent breakfast meeting at which Chancellor [Albert] Carnesale spoke, he noted that the first transmission via the Net was in Boelter Hall, but in no way did he ever claim that the UCLA participation was the most critical part of this project.

I’m sure that if IBM or Xerox or Digital Equipment Corp. felt that they were highly responsible for the Internet, that the world would know about it through a series of television commercials. I haven’t seen any commercials, thus perhaps the private sector can’t make such claims. Additionally, any institution or individuals who might desire the recognition should stand up now, rather than later. I chuckled when I read about the “anonymous” individual chastising those “puffing themselves up beyond all recognition and trying to bend history to the needs of their personal ambition.” Perhaps that person should come forward now, not later, and set the record straight. This person’s unwillingness to do so contributes to the “foolishness and craving oversimplification” that this faceless one derides.

Chancellor Carnesale has shown the courage to seek and clarify the truth, even when it can and has damaged UCLA’s reputation and financial standing. I feel that he has done a good job in describing UCLA’s contribution to the Internet, but in no way is he attempting to deny many others their credit for this project.

PAUL WILKINS

Los Angeles