The digital divide is the gap between those who have access to technology and those who don’t. The term is closely related to the knowledge divide as the lack of technology causes a lack information. As the internet is becoming a major source of information there has been more of an emphasises for people to have access to computers. However, arguments against the narrowing of the divide has caused to question whether the digital divide is an issue.
In 2005 according to the world bank the global digital divide between the rich and poor nations is narrowing fast. The UN hope that widening access to technology such as mobile phones and the net will help eradicate poverty. This links in with the idea of technology improving knowledge one of the main arguments for bridging the global divide, which the UN firmly believe. Access to technology also brings a sense of democracy as people are free to look at whatever they wish with no consequences. Bridging he global divide is also believed to encourage equality between the richer and poorer countries.
The bridging of the gap has brought up some consequences such as; lack of privacy, piracy, global control and the freedom of choice not to have access to technology. Piracy is more of an issue in the more developed countries the majority of the population have access to technology, computers and the internet in particular. People believe that piracy may be encouraged by governments as they wish for more people to have access to the internet. Personally, I believe bridging the digital divide either globally or within a country has a positive outcome as the internet is now a main source of information as its more convenient for people. This will improve knowledge as an outcome, which is vital especially with the less developed nations.
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