Digital Divide and Social Inequality: An Anthropological Perspective on Technology Access
摘要
This chapter examines the digital divide as a fundamental aspect of social inequality, particularly evident in developed Western countries like the United States. The unequal availability of information and communication technologies exacerbates existing disparities related to race, class, and gender. Individuals with access to technology reap economic benefits (both as producers and consumers), social advantages (through networks formed or sustained via ICT), and cultural enrichment (through information and experiences facilitated by ICT). Conversely, those lacking technology face tangible disadvantages due to this lost potential, compounding their marginalization. The qualitative methodology utilized in this study, which combines descriptive and analytical elements, offers an anthropological lens on the dimensions shaped by technology access within human social frameworks following an exploration of the digital divide’s effects. Key findings indicate that gender-related issues are intertwined with broader inequalities that require intervention—gender-equitable strategies are essential for achieving universal technology access. Furthermore, the chapter advocates for recognizing technology access as a fundamental right in contemporary society, akin to essential resources like clean water. This research sheds light on how digital inclusion can bolster social sustainability and foster organizational creativity, underscoring the necessity for further investigation in this field.