Digital Boston
By Matthew Palmer
One of the fundamental philosophies of the U.S. is equality of opportunity
(what you do with it is up to you). This usually refers to jobs or
education, but now that the Information Age is irrefutable, it also
means technology to some people. The "digital divide," namely
the separation between the technological haves and have-nots, is generally
accepted but its implications are not fully understood. For example,
the divide is surely caused by economic causes (since technology is
often expensive), but its relation to race is not completely clear.
One important battleground of the digital divide is in employment.
An increasing number of jobs require computer literacy, leaving those
who don't use them or can't afford to own them behind. A non-profit
organization called the Boston Digital Bridge Foundation recognizes
this problem and is trying to solve it. They offer programs for students
and adults to give them experience with computers. They have partnered
with several companies to raise the needed funds. These companies
probably realize not only the social benefit they are providing, but
also the financial one. A better trained workforce will benefit them
in the long run. It reduces the time and money employers need to spend
to train employees.
In fact, a more computer literate society will have wide-reaching
benefits. Primarily, the programs that the Foundation offers will
help the low-income people who take them. They will have greater options
when it comes to employment, and maybe even a higher paying job. They
can also receive all of the benefits of the Internet (which they may
be able to access through a local library if they do not have a computer
at home).
Society as a whole should embrace organizations like the Foundation.
It, too, is helped by the education it provides. The Digital Revolution
will not truly be a revolution if it leaves behind a good portion
of Americans. Just because they are poorer or less educated does not
mean they cannot contribute. The Internet is often referred to as
a new form of democracy because a variety of people can freely express
their views. However, it is also similar to an exclusive club, requiring
members to own expensive equipment that is difficult to use. Hopefully,
efforts like the Boston Digital Bridge Foundation will expand and
help