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The Effect of Native Language on Internet Usage

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  • Gandal, Neil

Abstract

In this Paper, I explore the relationship between native language and use of the Internet and examine whether English is likely to retain its first-mover advantage of a large installed base of English language websites. I study this issue empirically using a unique dataset on (home) Internet use at the individual level in Quebec from Media Metrix. The results suggest that English language websites are less of a barrier for French-speaking youths than for French-speaking adults in Quebec. To the extent that the younger generation drives the dynamics of the Internet, the results provide some support for the hypothesis that English will retain its first mover advantage of a large installed base of English language websites. I also examine the effect of bilingualism on Internet use and find that among native French speakers, bilingual individuals use English language websites significantly more than their monolingual counterparts.

Suggested Citation

  • Gandal, Neil, 2002. "The Effect of Native Language on Internet Usage," CEPR Discussion Papers 3633, C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers.
    • Handle: RePEc:cpr:ceprdp:3633
    as

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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Chiswick, Barry R. & Miller, Paul W., 2003. "The complementarity of language and other human capital: immigrant earnings in Canada," Economics of Education Review, Elsevier, vol. 22(5), pages 469-480, October.
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    3. Rauch, James E., 1999. "Networks versus markets in international trade," Journal of International Economics, Elsevier, vol. 48(1), pages 7-35, June.
    4. Jeffrey Church & Ian King, 1993. "Bilingualism and Network Externalities," Canadian Journal of Economics, Canadian Economics Association, vol. 26(2), pages 337-345, May.
    5. Church, Jeffrey & Gandal, Neil, 1992. "Network Effects, Software Provision, and Standardization," Journal of Industrial Economics, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 40(1), pages 85-103, March.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Internet use; Network effects; Language;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D12 - Microeconomics - - Household Behavior - - - Consumer Economics: Empirical Analysis
    • L86 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Services - - - Information and Internet Services; Computer Software

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