I work at a bank, and a web-service provider called "Websense" banned Slate last week because of "questionable content". I argued that it's a mainstream site, owned by the Washington Post Company, and Websense reluctantly agreed to permit access to Slate.

I used to work for a large, oppressive and low-paying, corporation which wouldn't let me read my horoscope. It went to a default page that said something to the effect of "this content is banned do to questionable religious topics and witchcraft."

Well, I'm glad the company cared enough about us to keep us safe from the witches and wizards of MSN horoscopes. Luckily, it was just a college internship.

they just don't want to be paying you to read your horoscope. fair enough. but it definitely turns me off from working for a company. many people have down time at some point during their jobs and you shouldnt be stuck twiddling your thumbs when you do.

more and more companies are prohibiting internet use for non business related things and increasingly they are watching your web activity. i always just assume going into a job that they are implementing these tools. better safe than sorry....

If I were your employer I would ask: "What valid reason would you have to access Slate or any other site during work time?" If it is personal use, would you be willing to take a small deduction from your pay for interent access and equipment useage?

how much time you spent....

it's their right to do it. but, i wouldnt think it necessary at most jobs. and if you had an employee who abused it, you could speak to them and if it continues, fire them. of course i'm sure there are many companies where that isn't feasible.

what did people do all day at work before the internet anyways? before you say "work", i'm talking about jobs where you have a lot of down time...

"what did people do all day at work before the internet anyways?"

I think that was where paper clip art came from.