Description
The author first illustrates how the impact of information technology on globalization can be conceptualized in terms of transactions costs, product proliferation and mechanisms of cumulative causation. He finds that globalization tends to benefit a relatively small group of rich individuals, firms and countries. Consequently he suggests policy measures through which information technology can be used to lessen, rather than exacerbate, the digital divide. He goes on to argue that even if the proposed measures are reasonably successful, considerable attention will still need to be paid to conventional technologies and, in particular, to the promotion of technologies that will benefit the poorest groups in the developing nations. Finally, the author looks in detail at technology policy in sub-Saharan Africa, a region which has profited least from the benefits provided by new technologies such as email and the internet.
Technology, Globalization and Poverty will be essential reading for academics interested in technological change, economic development, and the relationship between the two. Policymakers in both developed and developing countries will also draw great value from this work.
About the Author
Jeffrey James, Emeritus Professor of Economics, Tilburg University, the Netherlands
Reviews
'. . . this monograph by Jeffrey James is most welcome as it focuses on one of the key drivers, technology, and one of the key consequences, poverty, and thus engages with the important policy debates on the "digital divide". . . the book is concise, clearly written and contains a wealth of detailed empirical evidence regarding the nature of global poverty and pro-poor modes of technical integration in the global economy.' -- Corinne Nativel, Economic Geography Research Group
Book Information
ISBN 9781840644845
Author Jeffrey James
Format Hardback
Page Count 160
Imprint Edward Elgar Publishing Ltd
Publisher Edward Elgar Publishing Ltd
