Internet diffusion and the digital divide The role of policy-making and political institutions

As governments, businesses, and society tackle the digital divide, understanding why the divide persists and whether it is widening or is narrowing is crucial. This chapter analyzes attempts to make policy and implement programs relating to the internet and the diffusion of technology in four constitutionally democratic countries. The aim is to generate hypotheses regarding the potential role of institutions in this process. Each case-Brazil, Estonia, Singapore, and the United States-is a recognized leader in technological diffusion in its region. While the literature on the digital divide emphasizes the very real impact of economic and societal forces, political institutions and policy processes are also important drivers of technology diffusion.

Duke Scholars

Author Kenneth S. Rogerson Sanford School of Public Policy