Naslov
Technology as a Tool for Diversity

Autori
Uzelac, Aleksandra

Izvornik
Culturelink (1016-1082) 14 (2003), 41; 127-132

Vrsta, podvrsta i kategorija rada
Radovi u časopisima, članak, stručni

Ključne riječi
ICT; Internet; cultural diversity; copyright

Sažetak
The Internet is becoming the essential communication and information medium in our society. The fast development of Internet and ICT sector in general is affecting work of artists and cultural sector. The concept of an information society suggests universal and free access to information services (thus knowledge) for all citizens/users and possibility for an active participation in knowledge sharing. But barriers exists in the virtual sphere as well as in the real one - infrastructural divide, language barriers, financial inbalance, educational imbalance, unsuitable policies and regulations, etc. Digitisation and the development of computer networks have changed the context of copyright as it is no longer necessary to have physical copies of most works, but users can simultaneously access the same resource. Legislation and especially copyright is crucial in determining what new services can be provided to users and commodification of culture could posse threat to free exchange and sharing of information and knowledge. On the other hand, the new context that Internet brings, is affecting the work of artists and the new situation should be acknowledged in the cultural policy regulations. When we look at cultural diversity, the key potential of the Internet is as a tool for providing far more than academic reports and newspapers. It already is a major means for the transmission of music and the Hollywood majors are set to launch an on-demand Internet movie service. But the Internet has the potential to be more than just a distribution channel for established cultural industries. Its two way communication provides new opportunities for involving users. In order to give stronger voice to small, independent players it is necessary to build some common mechanisms through which they can be more visible (virtual networks, portals). The future shape of the information society depends on achieving a balance between commercial and non-commercial initiatives.

Izvorni jezik
Engleski

Znanstvena područja
Sociologija

POVEZANOST RADA