Google's refusal to cooperate with governmental authorities who are asking for the company's search records could become a catalyst for a major discussion about privacy and Internet use.

The Justice Department had asked a federal judge to issue Google an order to turn over search-engine data as part of an effort to revive an online pornography law.

Google was first served a subpoena in August, but refused to comply with a request to turn over a considerable amount of requested material.

Although the issue is not expected to be resolved until March, it has sparked considerable discussion among privacy groups and child-safety advocates, touching on issues such as identity protection, free speech, and child protection.