Advisory - The Freedom Connection? Nobel Laureates discuss ICTs for humanity

OTTAWA , Sept. 21 /CNW Telbec/ - Nobel Laureates Amartya Sen and Michael Spence join Information and Communication Technology (ICT) experts Yochai Benkler and Clotilde Fonseca in a discussion of the role of ICTs in human development, growth, and poverty reduction. The panel, "Communication and Human Development: The Freedom Connection?" is organized by Canada's International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and the Berkman Center for Internet & Society at Harvard University.

    
    Date:   Wednesday, September 23, 2009
    Time:   7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
    Place:  Ames Courtroom, Austin Hall, Harvard Law School (map)
    

Six years ago, IDRC brought together Nobel Laureates Amartya Sen and Michael Spence with 30 leading thinkers and practitioners from around the globe. Since then, many transformative changes have occurred in the worlds of ICTs and development. Communication and knowledge offered by emerging technologies enable or enhance a wide range of benefits and opportunities for the poor, such as improved access to employment and public services. But the expansion of new technologies also presents risks, including the potential for increased political control, invasion of privacy, and vulnerability to cyber-crime.

Panelists will debate these issues and respond to questions from the audience online and at Harvard University. Journalists and the public can follow the debate online via live video or audio webcast, and join in the conversation through Twitter, Internet Relay Chat, and the Question Tool.

For more information, visit www.idrc.ca.

About IDRC

Canada's International Development Research Centre (IDRC) is one of the world's leading institutions in the generation and application of new knowledge to meet the challenges of international development. For nearly 40 years, IDRC has worked in close collaboration with researchers from the developing world to build healthier, more equitable, and more prosperous societies.

For further information: Isabelle Bourgeault-Tassé, [phone], [email protected]