Of all the readings assigned thus far, I admit that the technological terminology used throughout most of the article “CHAPTER 7: The Wireless Revolution and Universal Access” from Michael L. Best’s book Trends in Telecommunications Reform 2003 was very difficult for me to comprehend at times and required various rereads in order to gain confidence in the meaning of what was read.
Overall, the concept of having wireless internet spread to rural and underdeveloped communities around the world is ambitious and worth working on in order to help improve the living standards of those communities. The only problem is that many of the communities in question lack all other basic infrastructures that would allow them to function in what we in the developed world consider to be adequate living conditions. For me, the premise of the entire article is flawed. More should be done to feed the millions that are starving and suffering other various afflictions. The whole wireless internet for the developing world should be put on hold until the things that matter are actually taken into account. In my opinion, Kofi Annan should have had a different set of priorities, perhaps looking into his son’s handling of the oil-for food program?
The other ideas in the article such as the village area network are still very interesting to read about. Although the internet would provide unmatched influences on peoples lives and probably change many of their outlooks on life, items such as food and running water would also have a similar impact. The costs of funding this technology and the internet should be spent on necessities.
Q1. What would modify from the reading to create what you believe to be the best way to spread wireless internet to rural and underdevoloped communities?
Q2. What criticisms do you have of Michael Best’s outline?
Q3. What was the most important piece of information you obtained from today’s reading?
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