Unveiling the modernity bias: a critical examination of the politics of ICT4D

Abstract

The issue of politics in information and communication technology for development (ICT4D) research is rarely debated, yet one of the key instrumental freedoms proposed by Sen [(1999). Development as freedom. New York: First Anchor Books] in his seminal book on development is political liberty for individuals. We argue that ICT4D initiatives are predominantly informed by a modernist philosophy, which in their effort to bring some material progress risk granting technological tools a major role. This view assumes that ICT4D users are merely passive recipients of the benefits of technology. Moreover, it implies that development can only be brought by those in a more developed, powerful position. This in itself is a political viewpoint, and thus politics is embedded in the design of ICT4D projects. Building on Sen's (1999) capability framework, we discuss how far ICT4D projects are able to assist political liberty of the alleged beneficiaries, given that political liberties are constrained by wider institutional factors. We conclude by making a call for researchers to more critically examine the structure and intention of ICT4D projects.

Keywords:

• Sen's capability framework
• development
• information and communication technology for development (ICT4D)
• modernity
• political liberties

Acknowledgement

We would like to express our gratitude to the anonymous reviewers for their helpful suggestions and insights.

Notes

Annika Andersson is the accepting Guest Editor for this article.