Magdalino, James Francis

1ST COLLEGE BSTM SECTION 2

1. Compare diffusion theory to SCOT.

Adoption of a new idea, behavior, or product does not happen simultaneously in a social
system; rather it is a process whereby some people are more apt to adopt the innovation than
others. Researchers have found that people who adopt an innovation early have different
characteristics than people who adopt an innovation later. When promoting an innovation to a
target population, it is important to understand the characteristics of the target population that
will help or hinder adoption of the innovation.
2. What commonalities and differences are there between the systems approach and the Actor-
Network Theory?
Actor Network Theory and Systems Thinking are not only compatible, I find it difficult to think of
one without the other. You cannot convince someone of the benefits of Systems Thinking by
just talking. In fact, you do not even need to mention Systems Thinking. What can work is
showing them how having a systemic perspective can solve complex problems and part of
having a systemic perspective is relying on interrelationships which is what Actor Network
Theory is.
3. Give examples of the socially constructed nature of ICT.
Society
A society is a system that allows people in a region to get along in productive and peaceful
cooperation.
Law
The laws and regulations of nations, cities and international agreements.
Economics
Economics such as economic systems, regulations, markets, business models and production
methods.
Languages
Natural languages such as Mandarin, Spanish, English and French.
Concepts
Concepts are mostly tied to language but can also exist as visuals. For example, the concept of
civility is a social construct.
Culture
The traditional culture of a nation or people and other types of culture such as subculture,
super culture and organizational culture.
Literature & Music
Products of individual imagination are typically based on existing culture such that they are
partially socially constructed. For example, grammar or musical notes are social constructs that
are used by individuals to create works of cultural value.
Entertainment
Entertainment is built on top of language and culture such that it is largely socially constructed.
Art
Art is a type of culture that is based on both individual creativity and shared understandings
and methods.
Architecture
Architecture is partially socially constructed but is also heavily based on hard sciences such as
physics and geology and applied sciences such as civil engineering.
Traditions
Traditions such as a festival or custom.
Fashion
Fashion norms, methods, and traditions.
Communication
Communication such as the visual symbols of a nation.
Technology
Technology is the application of science to produce tools and systems that serve human needs.
It is mostly shaped by hard sciences and applied sciences. However, it can also be partially
socially constructed. For example, a video game with characters who wear socially constructed
fashion that executes on a computer that is a product of engineering.
Roles
Social and economic roles such as a grandfather or police officer.
Norms
Norms such as shaking hands as a greeting.
Emotions
Emotions are a biological thing that would exist without society. However, they may be colored
by social constructs such as the concept of bravery or kindness.
Human Behavior
Human behavior is driven by complex factors of biology, individual experience, culture,
tradition, and systems such as society. As such, human behavior is partially socially constructed
unless an individual lives in a state of anomie.
4. How can ICT reproduce power inequalities? Alternatively, how can it change them?
Because new technologies are introduced into societies which are already far from equal – in
many interlocking ways.

Wealth in most societies is concentrated by inheritance and occupation. The rich can afford more
access to more new technologies than can the poor, just as they can afford more access to
everything else that requires cash.

Education too is often concentrated, and also often in high-income groups. Those with more
education can make more use of ICTs than those with less because they have more skills.

Income and education are often concentrated by gender and in certain social groups. Men’s
average incomes exceed women’s in most societies. In many countries boys spend more time in
school than girls, and are likelier to go to university. Inequalities derived from ethnicity,
sexuality and disability are commonplace.