In the piece, the author draws a parallel between the concept of the 'thermidorian reaction' from the French Revolution and the contemporary state of the internet, characterized by the increasing prevalence of cyber-censorship. As the internet transformed communication and access to information globally, it also triggered responses from governing bodies that seek to control and moderate this newfound freedom. The author argues that just as historical revolutions often face conservative backlash, our current digital landscape is experiencing pushback from various governments.

The article further emphasizes that the rise of internet censorship is not unique to any one country but is instead a global phenomenon reflecting the fears and challenges associated with unregulated access to information. The internet's revolutionary potential has allowed individuals to break through traditional barriers, leading to the emergence of independent voices and new business models. However, this freedom has triggered a reaction from authorities who feel threatened by this shift, thus tightening their grip on digital expression.

Ultimately, the piece suggests that the trend towards cyber-censorship is likely to persist as governments work to maintain social order and control over information dissemination. The implications of this trend are profound, as they challenge the very foundations of free speech and the democratizing potential of the internet, suggesting that the fight for digital freedom is far from over.