It is estimated that in 2009, half the global population will have access to a mobile phone.  What effect will the proliferation of new technologies and access to information have on social and cultural norms in previously disadvantaged communities?

The purpose of this essay is to examine the current state of access to digital and information technology in developing countries.  A comparison will be drawn between ‘information rich’ and ‘information poor’ cultures in order to ascertain fundamental economical, literacy and political differences.  We shall examine some current initiatives being taken in order to overcome the current information gap between developed and developing countries.  The factors that are required to successfully implement these initiatives will be considered, along with their potential repercussions for both the cultures adopting these measures and those organizations or countries spearheading these initiatives.  Lastly we will examine the way in which the adoption and use of these new technologies might influence and change the way developing cultures interact both internally and globally.

Digital Divide (right click/save as to download the full essay)