Cultural Contradictions of the Anytime, Anywhere Economy: Reframing Communication Technology

Telematics and Informatics, Vol. 21, No. 2, pp. 123-141, May 2004

26 Pages Posted: 15 Apr 2005

See all articles by Nikhilesh Dholakia

Nikhilesh Dholakia

University of Rhode Island

Detlev Zwick

York University - Schulich School of Business

Abstract

Technology-aided ubiquity and instantaneity have emerged as major goals of most information technology providers and of certain classes of users such as "road warriors". New mobile technologies promise genie-in-a-bottle type near-magical qualities with anytime, anywhere access to information and services. While the complex science, systems, and economics of such technologies receive considerable attention from industry executives and researchers, the social and cultural aspects of these technologies attract less attention. This paper explores the oft-contradictory promises and pitfalls of anytime, anywhere technologies from a cultural standpoint. It makes suggestions for reinterpreting these technologies for greater human good.

Keywords: Mobile, communications, culture, digital divide, networks, SCOT, MOT

Suggested Citation

Dholakia, Nikhilesh and Zwick, Detlev, Cultural Contradictions of the Anytime, Anywhere Economy: Reframing Communication Technology. Telematics and Informatics, Vol. 21, No. 2, pp. 123-141, May 2004, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=689801

Nikhilesh Dholakia (Contact Author)

University of Rhode Island ( email )

Quinn Hall
55 Lower College Rd.
Kingston, RI 02881
United States

Detlev Zwick

York University - Schulich School of Business ( email )

4700 Keele Street
Toronto, Ontario M3J 1P3
Canada
416-736-2100 ext. 77199 (Phone)
416-736-5687 (Fax)

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