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The Internet and Economic Growth in Least Developed Countries: A Case of Managing Expectations?

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  • Charles J. Kenny

Abstract

A discussion of the theory of technology and economic growth suggests potentially negative implications for the impact of the Internet on developing countries. Technology in general is undoubtedly central to the growth process, but economists define technology in very broad terms. The impact of any particular, invented, technology is likely to be small. This theoretical perspective is supported by the empirical evidence regarding the limited impact of past 'information revolutions' on least developed countries (LDCs) and the present impact of the Internet on advanced economies.

Suggested Citation

  • Charles J. Kenny, 2002. "The Internet and Economic Growth in Least Developed Countries: A Case of Managing Expectations?," WIDER Working Paper Series DP2002-75, World Institute for Development Economic Research (UNU-WIDER).
    • Handle: RePEc:unu:wpaper:dp2002-75
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    1. Wallsten, Scott, 2003. "Regulation and internet use in developing countries," Policy Research Working Paper Series 2979, The World Bank.
    2. Ying Liu & Lin Li & Fei Teng Zheng, 2019. "Regional Synergy and Economic Growth: Evidence from Total Effect and Regional Effect in China," International Regional Science Review, , vol. 42(5-6), pages 431-458, September.
    3. Abdur Chowdhury, 2003. "Information technology and productivity payoff in the banking industry: evidence from the emerging markets," Journal of International Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 15(6), pages 693-708.

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