Define The Information Technology Revolution And Critically Analyse Its Role In Creating The Network Society

             Define The Information Technology Revolution And Critically Analyse Its Role In Creating The Network Society.
             The Information Technology Revolution is probably the most important force shaping communities today. While some of the key forces behind the IT revolution are universal, the impacts on any given community will be unique, depending on its individual make up, economic structure, attributes and responses. Technology proves us with the ability to create, process and store information. (Martin 1995, p 33)
             It can also be said that the world is experiencing a 'third industrial revolution'. This revolution is total, effecting all aspects of our lives. It is a move from collective to individual. (Castells 2000, p 28-35)
             According to Castells, we are currently experiencing an IT Revolution just as there was an Agricultural Revolution and an Industrial Revolution. He compares the two and then contrasts it by saying that the industrial revolution was slower and localised where as the IT revolution was faster and global. (Castells 2000, p30 )
             There is a shift from industrialism (mass production) to informationalism (flexible production). Rather than companies producing in huge volumes, they are beginning to adopt techniques, which customise products for individual need. In the westernised industrial world, Castells believes that producers have moved away from mass production to smaller volumes of individual needs. With the flexible forms of production in the west, mass production shifts to the less developed world. (Castells 2000, p166 & lec 3)
             As technology is advancing Castells states that technology is neither good, bad nor is it neutral. Its good in terms of that we have more technology, which is more advanced and better for us. Its bad in terms of, environmental groups such as Green Peace may see technology as the source of problem. Reclaiming the streets will see cars/motor vehicles/refrigerators ...

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