ABSTRACT
The empirical research reported in this book has resulted from a principled commitment to a range of qualitative methodologies of social investigation. The claim is not that such methodologies are sufficient for an understanding of the place and significance of new media and technology in everyday life in Europe, but that arguably they are necessary. They are necessary because without them the fine grain of social interaction around, and the social consequences following, the introduction of new media and communication technologies will be forever out of reach. And they are also necessary insofar as that fine grain, in its capacity to illuminate these actions, values and beliefs, might go some way to disturb the presuppositions of those who are involved with, and also maybe of those technologically and politically responsible for, the innovation and diffusion of ICTs across Europe.1
