ABSTRACT

This chapter shows that a broad theoretical framework is outlined which attempts to address this problem by establishing a baseline from which to view national patterns for developing information technology. It discusses the underlying processes by which information technologies are developed, adopted, and used within a society. The chapter focuses on the two major models used by democratic-capitalist societies. Each model, proponents argue, is most suitable for maximizing the benefits of an information society while minimizing social disruption. The factors that affect the way in which a society develops and adopts information technology are too numerous to list. A clear disadvantage of the Marketplace Model is inequal distribution and utilization of information technologies. Information inequity results from a number of factors, ranging from existing social class differences to service availability and cost. Power is shared by the Federal Communications Commission, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, Congress, and the courts.