| Chapter 1: | A Global, Low-Cost Network Thrives |
“What we are referring to as ‘worldwide’ will, however, mean a large—but not absolutely comprehensive—part of the world. The same occurs now when we say ‘electricity is available worldwide.’ ” —Suely Fragoso, professor, Unisinos, Brazil
“ ‘Extremely low cost’ is relevant. What is small to those in the developed world is expensive to nonelites in the rest of the world.” —Barry Wellman, professor and director of NetLab at University of Toronto, Canada
“While network interoperability may be perfected at a technological level, it is unlikely to lead to smooth data flow, authentication, and billing because it is to the advantage of organizations that make money off of these things to try and maintain monopolies. Likewise, providing wireless communications still requires building infrastructure, and it isn’t clear that there will be sufficient funding to develop those networks in all parts of the world, or that satellite technology would come down enough in cost to meet the low-cost scenario. Launching satellites and building infrastructure costs money the Third World doesn’t have—and private companies work for profit.” —Lisa Kamm, has worked in information architecture since 1995 at organizations including IBM, Agency.com and the ACLU
“Although the network will be widespread, there will still be pockets of poverty where access to the equipment, energy, and knowledge will be limited. A ubiquitous network means ubiquitous electricity, computer equipment, and global literacy. That’s a tall order.” —Karen Coyle, information professional and librarian
“There will probably still be segments of the world that will deliberately obstruct true, unfettered interoperability for purposes of controlling the flow of information (e.g., China).” —Jim Huggins, associate professor of computer science, Kettering University
“There will be a global network but [people will] have less confidence that it will be low cost, given that access will often be in for-profit hands. I expect consolidation of companies providing access and a correlative increase in prices.” —David Elesh, associate professor of sociology, Temple University