International telecommunications

Abstract

Information is transforming society. In the new information society there is no difference between suppliers and consumers. How each area of the world generates or receives information varies as a function of its culture and economic level. Four groups exist: North America, Europe, Japan and the Third World. Each views the information age differently: North America as a creator and seller of information technology; Europe as a creator and consumer; Japan as a seller; and the Third World as consumers of information technology and suppliers of geophysical data. To promote communication between these groups international standards must be established. But these should not be used to limit competition or to stifle innovation.