Book Description

Technology and In/equality explores the diverse implications of the new information and communication technologies through case studies of their applications in three main areas - media, education and training, and work. Questions of access to and control over crucial resources such as information, knowledge, skills and income ae addressed drawing upon insights from science and technology studies, innovation theory, sociology and cultural studies. All of the chapters question the meanings of the terms 'technology' and 'inequality' and of the widespread association of technology with progress. Written with a non-specialist readership in mind, all complex theories and key concepts are carefully explained making the book easily accessible and relevant to a wide range of courses.

Synopsis

This text explores the relationship between technology and inequality through social and cultural theory and case studies of the application of ICTs, in particular in media, education and training. It discusses the policy implications of this (presumed but arguable) inequality. The book tries to answer the following questions: why is it important to think about technology and inequality? what theoretical ideas can help us understand technology and inequality? what are the policy implications of the assumption that more technology/information is better?; and by encouraging pluralism do we avoid confronting fundamental inequalities in society?