Pros and Cons of Information Technology (November 16th, 2003)

As I have often said - even to my own mother (With respect to my entry into the Naval Nuclear Propulsion School) - 'there is no bad technology, there is just bad use of technology'. But with time, I have amended this.

There is no bad technology, there is abuse or lack of use of technology.

That said, this article is of interest:

Developments - The International Development Magazine - IT: problem or solution?

The article has a few interesting excerpts:

...There is, however, a real danger that technologies may be promoted to the developing world because they serve the interests of the industrialised world, instead of being the best solution to real problems. Just as genetically-modified foods are presented as a solution to world starvation (even though research indicates that land reform will do more to feed the starving peoples of the world than any amount of vitamin-enhanced rice) so inappropriate technologies can be endorsed and promoted....

Proprietary Software. Intellectual Property. Digital Rights Management. Consumerism.

Another excerpt:

...Bridging the digital divide is about more than letting technology companies make money from potential new markets. It requires attention to the real needs and interests of people living in countries without proper network infrastructure. It is also only one step towards sustainable development. We still need to ensure that information and communications technologies are used appropriately, and that we understand their real environmental and social impact...

Needs of people. Interests of People. Proper Network Infrastructure. Sustainable Development.

Social Impact. Societal impact. Cultural impact.

eGovernment? Same pros, same cons.