Dear GKD Members, I'm glad to see that Yacine's intervention has opened up the debate somewhat to include a consideration of the role of ICTs in society. However, I think it's still important to point out the need to not be technologically deterministic when considering the role of ICTs in society. I agree with Luis Eliecer's contribution, we need to see technologies as means to ends. I've been prompted to make this contribution after looking at some evaluation Panos has done of some of its work in Southern Africa using the (albeit non ICT) technology of radio. It is quite clear that Panos' particular use of radio involving a system of listening clubs to facilitate discussion and intervene in the broadcaster/listener relationship has achieved at least one of its objectives in empowering women to take part in broader discussion on issues of concern to them. This empowerment has also enabled them to take part in other fora and to take on leadership roles beyond the scope of the project facilitated by the particular media technology concerned. For the purposes of this discussion I'd like to see more evidence of understanding of just how ICTs are being and can be used to empower the poor and marginalised in the majority world.
Alec Leggat Project Development Panos London 9 White Lion Street London N1 9PD tel +44 (0) 20 7239 7608 fax +44 (0) 20 7278 0345 [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.panos.org.uk ------------ ***GKD is solely supported by EDC, an NGO that is a GKP member*** To post a message, send it to: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To subscribe or unsubscribe, send a message to: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>. In the 1st line of the message type: subscribe gkd OR type: unsubscribe gkd Archives of previous GKD messages can be found at: <http://www.edc.org/GLG/gkd/>
