Measuring information societies: A critical study of the Infostate framework

Abstract

In this chapter, I use critical theory to explore the underlying philosophy of the infostate framework for measuring information societies in developing countries. I find the hallmarks of instrumental reason when examining the framework and argue that this risks giving policymakers a false sense of clarity when shaping poverty reduction policies in developing countries. Given the influence of the infostate framework on the shaping of policy, this could have serious negative consequences for international efforts. I suggest a thorough critical study of a wider set of frameworks used for policymaking. The study could form the basis for the development of alternative frameworks for the measurement of information societies in developing countries. © 2008 International Federation for Information Processing.