NPR's Fresh Air takes a look at the high cost of internet in the USA
 

It's all in the fine print.

At the link, you can listen to the show, read a summary, or read the transcript. It was an interesting listen.

http://www.npr.org/2012/09/20/161477...lls-fine-print

It's as high or higher in Canada. I was reading a thread on a forum from a poster in the Ukraine. gigabit internet (including 75 TV channels) for the equivalent of $18 USD a month. Bell in Canada wants $250.month for 250/30 megabit.

What's wrong with this picture?

My theory would have something to do with the societal concept (or lack thereof) of "the public good."

Just a guess.

Don't forget the figures will vary: not everyone in the Ukraine will get the service available in Kiev. I'm in London. I don't have cable, because I'm not that interested in TV, and I don't have a fibre optic connection because I don't need it. With the telephone line, I get 8Mb. I pay £20 a month for 10GB downloads a month (extra free 0-8hrs), free phone calls evenings and weekends, and line rental. There are suppliers that give more or charge less, but they have call centres in India and mine has one in Yorkshire.