The Myth of the Information Revolution: Social and Ethical Implications of Communication Technology (SAGE Communications in Society series)

The `information revolution' has generally been discussed from a European and North American perspective. This book analyzes the economics, politics and development of Third World countries in terms of their genuine communication needs rather than technological 'wants'.

All the contributors (five are from the Third World) agree that access to economic data is a long-term necessity; that mass media must reorganize and reconceptualize in order to serve development needs; and that grassroot organizations using small media must be encouraged.

The authors stress the direct link between communication development and Third World economic relationships. The 'information revolution' has so far had little impact on the Third World; and unless the popular sectors in developing nations assume both economic and communication power, that situation will continue. The book pleads, in effect, for a revolution from below -- a genuine communication revolution.

The Myth of the Information Revolution presents unique material on the global debate over new communication technologies. Its level of language and its focus on issues will make it accessible to both academics and communication practitioners.