ICTlogy

Abstract:

A major reference book, Knowledge Societies: Information Technology for Sustainable Development was published by Oxford University Press for the UN Commission on Science and Technology for Development in March 1998. Edited by Robin Mansell and Uta Wehn, the book includes an empirical analysis of developing country participation in knowledge-based development; a review of research on innovation systems and the learning process; and analyses of how developing countries are using ICTs to strengthen the science and technology base through education and lifelong learning. It also provides a critical review of the potential uses of ICTs, the problems faced by the least developed countries, the regulatory and intellectual property rights issues, and the national and regional strategies introduced by governments. The central argument in the book is that the capabilities for using ICTs are the most important issues if developing countries are creatively to apply ICTs to alleviate poverty.