ABSTRACT
Several studies have shown that ICTs do play a role to promote development at different levels. Nevertheless, most of these studies exclusively focus on the ICT access dimension, ignoring important matters such as the use of these technologies. As a consequence, the access approach has led to an overestimation of the benefits of ICT for people and communities. In assessing ICT impacts, one has to consider not only individual use but also users’ social relationships, (given ICT’s network characteristics), as well as the fact that ICT should be conceived as a means and not as a final goal. Using the Capability Approach (Sen, 1999), we evaluate whether the individual’s social circle influences people’s decisions for using the Internet in specific and/or diverse ways that expand their capabilities. Results show that belonging to a civic association has a positive effect not only in enhancing specific capabilities, but also in the diversification of many capabilities, simultaneously. In addition, being part of a broadly connected social circle reduces the likelihood of using the Internet for informational and learning activities. Finally, results show that diversity of people’s social circle is a key determinant for capabilities achievement.
