Perceptions of Social and Political Impact of the Internet: An Empirical Study of Two Emerging Economies

摘要

Different from what has been done among the MIS community, we attempt to determine awareness of social and political impact of the Internet as perceived by college students in two developing countries (Chile and United Arab Emirates (UAE)). Understanding these perceptions has important implications for policy makers and researchers. Based on cultural differences between the two countries, we stated a set of hypotheses that differentiate between positive and negative perceptions of social and political impact of the Internet. In addition, we stated a research question in order to explore the variables that influence student responses. The results of the study suggest that while Emirates students had mixed perceptions of social and political impact of the Internet, Chilean students had mixed perceptions only on social impact. In addition, Chilean students believed that the Internet could have positive impact on political affairs. Among the variables that influence student responses were gender, family income, number of hours using the Internet, and availability of it.