mobile phones and expanding human capabilities

MOBILE PHONES AND EXPANDING

HUMAN CAPABILITIES

Matthew L. Smith, Randy Spence and Ahmed T. Rashid

Outline Mobile Phones and Sen’s Capabilities

Approach Functionings of mobile phones

Social networks Economic networks Government networks

Policy issues and implications Potential future developments

Capabilities Approach Economic welfare theory which focuses

on peoples’ capabilities The approach emphasizes functional

capabilities "substantive freedom“ Broader than other economic welfare

theories

Capabilities Approach Cont’d

Mobile changes user’s capabilities by; Increasing access to timely and/or relevant

information Expanding possibilities for connection between

people Connectedness and information-sharing

provide a range of functionings that were not possible before

Social networks

In developing countries mobiles used for social interactions rather than business

Social networks Cont’d Mobile phones

primarily used for maintaining social and family relations

Survival/security purposes

Economic networks Increased

efficiency Reduced

transaction costs

Mobile banking

Government networks Improved

service delivery Healthcare Education

Policy issues and Implications

Should the government regulate the market? Consider;

Government's ability to create efficiency without failing

Can government be impartial? (high tax rates for mobile use i.e. cash cow)

Can government invest in ICTPolitical manipulation and control

Easy access

Improve

infrastructure

Future?

Innovation

Private Public Partnerships

e-voting