Virtuality check
Subtitle: power relations and alternative strategies in the information society
By: François Fortier
Publisher: Verso
Published: 2001
Place of publication: London; New York
Language: eng
Number of pages: 145
Subjects: Information technology -- Economic aspects -- United States; Internet -- Economic aspects -- United States; Information society -- United States
Other titles: Power relations and alternative strategies in the information society
Description: "Information and communications technologies (ICTs) and the new economy they herald are generally either glorified as unprecedented opportunities for post-industrial enfranchisement, or vilified as a mirage conjured up for their own ends by those who run the world." "This book sets out to review the relationship between information technologies and society. It examines the development of ICTs and explores the ways in which they are used to subjugate workers, manipulate consumers, and extend media monopolies and commercial control. Heavily steered as they are towards the interests of the state and corporate sectors Francois Fortier argues that ICTs currently do little more than polarise economics and political power in an anti-democratic fashion. Yet alternative forms and uses of ICTs do exist and have been promoted by progressive social sectors for nearly two decades. Concluding with a study of these initiatives, Fortier proposes a new political economy of ICTs, aimed at facilitating rather than obstructing democracy."--Jacket.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references (p. 130-145)