Studying the impacts of the Internet without assuming technological determinism

DaIy, John A.

Aslib proceedings 2000 52 (8)285-300
(ReLIS:jul:onkfhj:y:2000:v:52:i:8:p:285-300)

Abstract:

Developing countries generally have low leveis of Internet services, and as a result require different approaches to irnpact measurement than developed countries. A conceptual framework is proposed which accepts a role for technologicaí innovation, but which rejects technological determinism. It recognizes that econornic, social, political and cultural factors affect the penetration and use of the Internet. It ernphasizes direct and indirect irnpacts of the Internet on people, while including irnpacts on institutions and the environmental factors and policies that affect institutional irnpacts. Ultimately the Internet is an induced innovation, but developing countries still suffer frorn the Matthew principie - that those who have rnost will be given still more.

Keywords: Internet ; Países en desarrollo ; Aspecto económico ; Aspecto social ; Impacto
Pages: 285-300
Volume: 52
Year: 2000
Issue: 8

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