The Intelligent Community Forum
It is no exaggeration to say that the broadband revolution, which is still in its infancy, has the potential to create a golden age of prosperity, knowledge and freedom. But it has just as much potential to foster a “gilded age,” in which the benefits go to a privileged few in the age-old pattern that has hindered development around the world for centuries. What will determine the difference between gold and gilding? Enlightened policies and effective programs created by governments at the local, regional and national levels. While the private sector contributes technologies and builds networks, only the public sector can ensure that the benefits are shared widely and deeply enough to tap the full potential of the broadband revolution.
