ABSTRACT
The relationship between telecommunications policy and economic development has been the subject of research for more than 25 years (Dordick & Wang, 1993; Porat & Rubin, 1977). This topic, however, has received renewed and quite intense scrutiny in recent years. This renewed attention has taken place in a variety of forums and has manifested itself in quite diverse arenas. In some quarters, the discussion has taken on an almost feverish pitch. It has been analyzed, of course, in academia, being the subject of numerous research projects (see, e.g., Dholakia & Dholakia, 1994; Dholakia & Harlam, 1994). It also has been debated in a more public and less scholarly way in a growing number of states by telephone companies, state legislatures, administrative branches, or utility commissions. The issue rose to newer heights when it was employed in a very effective manner during the 1992 Presidential election. The expression “information superhighway” became part of common language. Although most of the population is familiar with this phrase, few know what it actually means (Bryant & Love, this volume; Dennis, 1994).
