The socio-economic consequences and limits of the information revolution*

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Rankine, L.J.

Affiliations: IBM Standards and Data Security, Armonk, NY 10504, USA

Note: [*] Paper presented at the 14th International TNO Conference, Rotterdam, The Netherlands, 18–19 March 1981.

Abstract: The socio-economic consequences of advancements in information and communication technology are reviewed. The importance of information for the present society is illustrated and it is predicted that there are no significant limits to the future information society. Restraining factors might be: – slow development of communication facilities; – the rate of adoption of standards; – government interference; – employee attitudes. A plea is made for a free, international flow of information with appropriate privacy protection. The major conclusion is that the information revolution presents an exciting opportunity to enhance the quality of life.

DOI: 10.3233/ISU-1981-1203

Journal: Information Services & Use, vol. 1, no. 2, pp. 65-73, 1981