E-Books in Africa, the Potential of New Media, & Access
It has become clear that in various cities around the world there are two separate economies, two separate societies, and two separate worlds. There is a dichotomy set, which places the “haves” on one side of the spectrum, and the “have-nots” on the other side. Historically, we have seen communities across the world be separated into those who have “access” and those who do not. As we delve well into the 21st century it becomes clear that technology unlocks new potentials and fresh opportunities to break this consistent spectrum, the leads to the cycle of poverty and privilege. Between videophones that hold Tunisian Governments accountable or Twitter pages that organize protest in Egypt, can we now live in a world where kindles and IPads will bring education to students across the continent of Africa or in communities like the south side of Chicago?
There are in fact two economies. And it is crucial to understand the differences between these two worlds. The first economy is a place of resource abundance, technological wealth, and political capital. The second economy is a place left with the inventions of the past, the industry of yesterday, and a wealth that doesn’t exist. These are of course extremes, but nonetheless, these are realities.