Information technology and underdevelopment in the Third World

Information technology is taking centre stage as the world approaches the twenty‐first century. The enormous advantages it has in easing the delivery of information around the world, as well as the central role of information in the new global economy, means that information technology will shape the dynamics of the new millennium. However, for most Third World countries, faced with the problems of illiteracy and poverty, information technology poses a danger to their fledgling economies. This paper discusses the theories of underdevelopment and applies them to information technology in a Third World context. Issues are raised about the role of information in a globalized economy and how this can become a disadvantage to developing countries. It is suggested that technology should be implemented within a social context.