Digital Divides: Inequality and Democratization - Essay Example

Digital Divides: Inequality and Democratization Introduction With the emergence and advancement of new media in the society, digital divide is the most commonly discussed area in relation to social equality. Rapid growth of new media affects various aspects of the society including socioeconomic and political lives (Woolgar 2002, p.1). The truth is, the world today is very unequal and more stratified where different kinds of inequalities exist and ignored. As the information and communication technologies evolve rapidly, new digital divides on the internet and other ICTs emerge. The digital divide debate continues to gain popularity since the development of new media because there is no policy that has helped in bridging the social inequities between the information and communication technology (ICT) haves and have-nots. Today, many individuals own and access ICT but there is still significant divides between the information rich and poor. Various discussions about digital divide highlight the inequitable social distribution and information access in the world as the society changes to a global network society. Digital divide debate mainly covers the inequitable access to information or lack of skills required in the operation of the emerging new media tools. In this case, the divide not only involves new media and connectivity but also the social gaps between individuals using new media and the societies that largely depend on information technology. Therefore, the digital divide can be perceived as both technological predicament and ethical crisis. As the information and communication technological innovations increase at a faster rate, societal members’ dependency on ICT strengthens but this opportunity leaves others behind because they are not capable of staying connected to the internet and access information. This paper discusses the digital divide experienced in the modern societies, its relationship with social exclusion and inequality. More so, it covers the connection between stratification and information access, digital divide and democratization, and lastly the possibility of eliminating this gap through technological advancements. Defining the digital divide The digital divide can be defined as the inequalities experienced between individuals having access to and use modern information and communication technologies including computers and the internet versus those individuals who do not enjoy such privilege. This includes individuals who possess and those who do not have necessarily skills, knowledge and abilities required to effectively use ICT. However, some individuals perceive digital divide to entail more than just access to information. It involves the repercussions that restriction to information access has on social exclusion and inequality. From a broader perspective, digital divide involve access, skills, political participation and economics among others. Initially, digital divide was analyzed in terms of availability of computers and internet connectivity but not other aspects such as education, literacy, and language among others (Warschauer 2003, p.6). Having a computer and access to the internet is not useful without the necessary skills to use technology. Economic opportunity and political participation help in realizing the inequality in information access as a public concern. Issues such as gender, education, income, race and location can be used to explain the prevalence of digital divide in our societies today (Ragnedda and Muschert 2013). They determine and significantly influence individuals’ choice to consistently use or not use new information technologies (Creeber and Martin 2009, p.126). However, availability and accessibility of the internet even in remote areas, the digital divide seems to shift from a gap in access or connectivity to knowledge divide. This implies that the divide is determined in terms of knowledge and skills possession to effectively use new media. Technologies such as the internet, twitter, facebook and blogs allow users to create content online and keep in touch with others. Some individuals believe that development of the internet will help reduce or totally eliminate inequalities between the rich and the poor in the society. However, others refute this claiming that digital technologies reinforce the existing inequalities (Norris 2001, p.26). Digital divide to digital inequality Today, researchers have moved their attention from the digital gap to digital inequality. Digital gap is no longer about the new media haves and have-nots, but it is all about the kind of internet individuals’ access on various devices (Yelton 2012, p.8). Digital inequality can be defined as socioeconomic disparities in the online population like quality and the cost of internet connection, and the skills and knowledge to access the required information via the internet. Some individuals are more convinced that digital gap will disappear if every societal member will be able to obtain information technologies like personal computers and internet connection (Dijk and Hacker 2003, p.316). Researches on digital divide mainly focus on various factors related to information such as access, motivation and skill among others (Shane 2004, p.227). Today, internet accessibility is not that important but what matters most nowadays is what individuals can do when they have an access to technology. Various forms of digital inequality exist, firstly, inequality with regard to technical terms where internet users having no access to powerful and expensive means are not capable of fully exploiting the internet content. Another form is the inequality with regard to autonomy use in that, the autonomy of individuals accessing and using internet can be restricted by the barriers of the geographical region where internet access is feasible. In addition, inequality with regard to skills where individuals using internet differ based on the level of their expertise, education and technical skills. Despite the advancements in technologies and improvements in technology use, many individuals lack adequate skills and knowledge to be able to use ICT effectively. More so, there is also inequality with regard to social support and here, individuals whose relative and friends are more informed and familiar with the new technologies are in most cases feel motivated to copy and use these technologies as well. Lastly, inequality with regard to purpose of use where the internet may require more knowledge and skills depending on the kind of information a person wants to access. Internet users are expected to have an extended knowledge about new technologies to be able to explore them in a more effective and useful manner. Digital inequality is a very crucial matter because those individuals who cannot access the skills and knowledge to explore new information technologies are missing out important areas of the digital world. Since digital media and internet connectivity foster economic growth and promote political engagement, unequally information access will therefore extend existing inequalities (Mossberger, Tolbert and Stansbury 2003, p.6). The digital divide and social exclusion and inequality The inequalities in the possession and access to digital media affects information access form the internet by the minority and disadvantaged societies (Creeber and Martin 2009, p.123). In the context of technological infrastructure and internet access, digital inequalities are inevitable and these inequalities are very useful in analyzing and understanding social exclusion. Some of the inequalities in the networked world include the lack of digital literacy, critical thinking and communication skills necessary in using and exploiting new technologies. The poor are the disadvantaged in the society since they cannot access information from the new technologies and do they do not benefit from technological innovations. With the information and communication technological advancements, the society is suffering from connectivity inequalities where high speed wireless is for the first class individuals who can afford it whereas low wireless for the poor and rural inhabitants. Information literacy is a very important digital inequality that is determined by individuals’ social background and level of education. Scholars have pointed out new divide in the society created by education in that there is a huge difference between those who have the opportunity to access education and those who have not. Information literacy encompasses online search, digital and networked literacy, and critical literacy skills required in exploration of different technologies. Today, access to information is very important as it determines an individual’s position in the society. Social inequalities are some of the key issues in the information society as they influence media literacy, education and participation in online discussions. In the information society, knowledge and information are developing at a faster rate (Dijk 2005, p.134). Social inequalities develop between marginalized individuals who do not have access to the internet and these individuals are more likely not to participate in socioeconomic and political life. Many people today are digitally disadvantaged not because they are socially excluded in the society but because of their age and educational level among others. The connection between stratification and information access and use Modern societies are highly stratified, that is, societal members are ranked according to their economic status, level of education and income among other factors. Social inequality occurs when some societal members are advantaged while others are disadvantaged in the society. Basically, some societal members are perceived as the haves while others as viewed as the have-nots. Indeed, social stratification affects the lives of many individuals in our societies today. Research findings have noted a positive relationship between economic wealth, information access and democratic political environment. There are socioeconomic disparities where there some individuals especially from poorer classes are marginalized digitally since their access to information is limited (Creeber and Martin 2009, p.123). Social stratification in our societies today influences information access and use in that, those individuals occupying upper social class, ranked high in the society are more likely to afford ne information technologies and easily have an access to information as compared to those ranked low. The elites are more educated and so have necessary skills and knowledge to explore and fully exploit ICTs. These individuals are computer literate and in some cases, they have the power to control the information being accessed by other societal members. More so, those living in urban areas are more likely to afford these new technologies and easily access information from the internet as opposed to those living in remote areas. Those individuals who occupy lower class are the disadvantaged in the society because they cannot even afford to purchase some of new technologies such as computers. The few who can afford these new technologies are not able to access the internet easily. More so, most of them are computer illiterate and because they lack necessary skills required in exploration of new media, they are not capable of accessing much useful information. Based on social stratification, those accessing information via new technologies and those who cannot, the information rich and poor are those ranked high and low respectively. Economic, educational and racial inequalities reflect the difference between the information rich and poor individuals in the society. That is, those who are economically enabled, have higher education level and are from developed countries are at a better position of affording information technologies and accessing information. On the contrary, those who are economically disadvantaged, have low education level or no education, and from developing nation are more likely not to afford new technologies and lack the required skills and knowledge to use these technologies and access information accordingly. The minority and non-English speaking individuals are among those at risk of not accessing information to improve their living condition (Cawkell 2001, p.58-9). Some argue that all inequalities experienced our societies today are largely enhanced by the digital gap (Ohnmacht, Maksim and Bergman 2009, p.75). On the other hand, some scholars argue that new technologies have played a significant and recognizable role in enhancing social equality through democratization consumption (Neckerman 2004, p.358). Modern technologies have transformed societies into knowledge economies and also modern societies have become more networked and connected due to technological advancements (Selwyn 2004, p.342). How digital divide relates to democratic participation and democratization Digital divide significantly influences democratic participation and democratization. Democracy has evolved to be reliant on the internet because the internet remains to be the primary source of information for many people. The internet educates individuals on democracy and it is constantly being updated with political and other news hence helping individuals to remain informed on what is happing in the government. Ideally, individuals who can easily access the internet engage in political discussion and are encouraged to participate in various democratic processes as opposed to those who are not connected to the internet. In the contemporary world, the information and communication technologies are very useful in promoting democracy. Democracy includes socioeconomic and cultural aspects that allow individuals to freely and equally participate in political activities. The information found in the internet enables individuals to become more knowledgeable concerning political issues and the government as a whole. The internet allow individuals to participate in the decision making process through social networking sites, virtual organizations and online forums. Educated and informed citizens are more interested understanding trending political issues and so they are more likely to vote, voice their opinions on behalf of the society at large. Political knowledge and skills are very important for empowerment and effective democracy (Mossberger, Tolbert and Stansbury 2003, p.6). Apart from the internet which makes it easy to access political information, social media also greatly influence the political process. Social media such as blogs and online forums promote democratic accountability (Hindman 2009, p.18). One major challenge of online participation in the political process is government’s restrictions because the state is capable of managing the type of information to be accessed by the public. A democratic government will encourage citizens to actively participate in the decision making process through online forums. Information and communication technologies such as the internet enable individuals to have a voice in the government and their opinions are considered during the formulation of government policies and decision making process. In addition, internet can be used as a campaign tool because the cost of information exchange on the internet is relatively low. The information conveyed through the internet reaches many individuals worldwide because many people are active users of this form of information technology. As compared to other mechanisms, the internet is the most appropriate way to increase awareness and keep citizens updated on the trending political news. Internet has taken over traditional media of political communication like newspapers and television because the civil society today has moved into the online world where everything is done online. More so, through open forums, different people including politicians and senior public servants engage in debates about current issues. Technological advancements have stimulated the emergence of e-democracy and e-participation where citizens are allowed to participate in the decision making process through online forums (Manoharan and Holzer 2012, p.199). Furthermore, the internet creates a sense of relevancy in civic participation by enabling individuals to air out their views and their voices be heard. It plays a leading role in deliberative democracy where access to various viewpoints is crucial in the decision making process. Today, many individuals are moving online to search for political information. More so, many people visit online sites not only to share their views and ideas but also to challenge other people’s point of view. Studies reveal that the number of individuals reading newspapers to access political information has decreased but online participation has increased tremendously. All in all, ICT is very important and it promotes democracy. However, not everyone will have the opportunity to air out their views and engage in the decision making processes due to digital divide. Only those who can own these new technologies and access the internet are able to participate in democratic process and share their opinion through open online forums. Indeed, the internet is a very important form of political communication and so individuals need to access political resources on the net in order to be part of civic engagement process (Norris 2000, p.1). Bridging the digital divide Whereas some individuals believe that the digital divide will close because of the reducing cost of technology, others claim that those who have access to information will improve their ICT knowledge while those who are not connected will be challenged by these modern technologies sue to their lack of skills. But still, there is need to close the digital divide for various reasons such as economic equality, social mobility, democracy, and economic growth among others. Internet accessibility is a key component of the civil life because the internet provides vital information relevant to individuals’ lifestyles, careers and safety. More so, the information and communication technologies such as computers and the internet play a leading role in promoting individual’s learning and career development. Communication networks allow individuals to seek advice, challenge other people’s ideas and meet individuals of the dame interests (Loader 2004). In addition, the use of the internet and other information technologies can help in promoting democracy and increasing public participation in democratic processes as well as decision making processes. The internet offers new opportunities for individuals to participate in political discussions. Therefore, online technologies enhance democracy and encourage the public to actively participate in politics. However, some scholars argue that there is a democratic political divide which occurs between individuals using internet for political purposes and those who do not. For instance, activists engage in online political discussions more as opposed to those who are not interested in politics. Moreover, the development and advancement in information infrastructure allows developing countries to quickly develop economically. This is because information and communication technologies are positively related to productivity improvements and this in turn gives various industries a competitive advantage. Therefore, bridging the gap between those who are connected to the internet and those who are not is very important. There is need to raise concern of the likelihoods that internet use and other information technologies can bring to individuals, economies and societies at large. Developments in information and communication technology should benefit all societal members without any inequality and discrimination because accessing information is a very critical aspect to all and so people need to suggest various ways to bridge the digital divide experienced in our societies today. Nevertheless, there is need to reduce the cost of technologies and encourage individuals to use and exploit these new technologies. Globally, different nations and individuals will benefit economically and socially from internet access expansion and increased usage of the internet. Bridging the digital gap will lead to the creation of a global community where developing countries will be able to acquire knowledge. The digital divide will disappear through technological advancement The digital divide is an increasingly important issue for many countries, the economy and the world at large. Without access to information technology such as the internet, it is hard to live a normal life because technology and internet is part of modern life. There are many discussions on ways to increase information access to deprived individuals in the society as one way to eradicate digital divide (Cawkell 2001, p.58). Despite the availability of networked digital communications for everyone, information access via new technologies has not diffused evenly in various parts of the world. Access to new information technologies is limited to those individuals with advantageous status and resources in the society such as education level, income, urban residence, and race among others. Notably, access to computers and the internet worldwide is necessary as it helps in avoiding social divisions and offer opportunities for everyone by ensuring that every person is involved in the knowledge society. Despite the increasing gap between the information rich and poor, some scholars believe that with time, digital divide will completely disappear through technological advancements. Currently, technological companies are trying to predict the emerging trends and technologies that will transform the lives of individuals in the future and ensure that social inequalities are addressed accordingly. Recent reports indicate that technological advancements particularly development of mobile technology will help in eradicating the digital divide. According to recent studies, the wealth of economies are determined by the level of information access and so in a few years’ time, the gap between the information haves and have-nots will disappear following the innovation of mobile technology. Nowadays, many people are able to access the internet through their smart phones anywhere and anytime since mobile phones are flexible and convenient to carry. More so, mobile phones are cheaper as compared to desktop computers or laptops and so many people can easily afford to purchase one and be able to connect to the internet and access any information. As mobile technology advances, the use of mobile phones increases because mobile phones are cheaper and this in turn will help in closing the digital divide. With mobile phone technology, many people have an access to information technology and so the gap is gradually reducing. Individuals go online using their internet-enabled mobile phones to access information, share and create ideas. Many researchers believe that smart phones are the only technology that can easily eliminate the digital divide because they are cheaper, portable, and easy to maintain as compared to other technological devices like computers or laptops. Some researchers argue that many people today choose smart phones over computers to access internet. Mobile internet users do not require certain skills and knowledge to be able to explore the internet and access the kind of information they want. Therefore, even those who are not well educated can successfully and effectively use mobile phones and access information without many challenges. Some of the intriguing mobile trends that can help in reducing the digital divide in the future include peer to peer access which enables mobile devices to connect with each other directly and this provides internet access to many people. More so, peer to peer networking technologies such as Bluetooth enable individuals to own their own mesh networking to allow them access information. In addition, machine to machine communication also allows mobile phones to connect individuals to important services. However, researchers reveal that it will take time for inequalities in access to digital information to disappear completely. The digital divide may be different but it will still stick to the society because first, mobile phones can help close the gap but there are some challenges. For instance, individuals can stay connected to the internet and access information through their mobile phones but they will access or experience the internet differently. This is because mobile phones have smaller screen and slower data connections as compared to computers or laptops. In addition, not everyone even in developed countries can afford mobile phones that are internet-enabled. Not every societal member can afford robust mobile devices and fast wireless data networks. More so, while the number of individuals owning mobile phones increases digital divide still persists among different races and socioeconomic groups. Individuals who believe technological advancements will not help in bridging the gap between the information haves and the have-nots claim that those who had limited access to digital information have been left behind already in terms of how to use these technologies. Those who had early access to digital information will remain to be far ahead and so the digital gap will continue to exist and maybe continue to grow. We are living in a world where we are determined by access to information and in this regard, the digital gap will not close easily. Conclusion Technological developments and advancements have created another form of inequality in the society called the digital divide. Digital divide is the type of inequality where some people can have an access and use new media while others cannot. It is all about the differences between the information rich and the information poor individuals in the modern society. The re many factors related to digital divide and these including, the level of education, gender, race, and socioeconomic status among others. Some people believe that advancements in information technologies helps in elimination social inequalities that are present in societies while other argue that new media enhances the digital divide and promotes other forms of inequalities in our societies today. Social stratification in the society is to a larger extended influenced by information access and use. For instance, those who are economically disadvantages, occupy the high social status, and have higher level of income and education are at a better chance of fully exploring new media and accessing information from the internet more easily. On the contrary, those who are ranked low in the society, have low level of education, economically disadvantaged and have lower income are more likely to lack necessary skills to use new media or may experience difficulty in affording new technologies. In most cases, access to information is limited to this group of individuals. More so, new information technologies such as the internet significantly contribute to empowerment, civic engagement and participation of individuals in the political processes. Even though some individuals are more convinced that technological advancements such as mobile technology will completely eliminate the digital divide, some scholars refute this arguing that will only widen the gap. By establishing and fostering knowledge societies as a way of bridging the gaps, there is need to create more efficient strategies and policies in order to overcome such inequalities. 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