Information: Commodity or Social Good

Abstract

Considers the dichotomy that exists in the general attitude of governments and policy-makers towards the role of information and information technology in society. Information is seen by some as a social good, enhancing the social, political and cultural life of citizenry and forming a de facto ‘fourth right of citizenship’ and by others as an economic commodity essential for the society’s continued prosperity. Takes a UK-specific perspective to discuss British initiatives and policies relating to the successful development of an effective information and communications technologies (ICT) infrastructure, considering the implications of the information society for individuals and communities. Issues considered include electronic commerce (e-commerce), business-to-business communications, the internet and World Wide Web. Concludes that the concept of ‘information as commodity’ is not new but suggests that the commodification of information has been accelerated by recent technological innovations. Suggests that, although the Government believes that the UK economy will thrive through business and industry taking advantage of e-commerce, its social exclusion and lifelong learning agendas are heavily reliant on the extension of ICT into communities, reducing barriers to information, knowledge and learning. How well these two priorities can be married so that any further commodification of information and privatization of information channels do not encroach upon the citizen’s fundamental right of access to knowledge, ideas and the products of creative thought and intellectual activity, is the main challenge for the future.