Traversing the digital divide in concept and effect: Relative interpretations and orientations

Abstract This discussion offers a general framing and positioning statement for identifying and considering principal analytical dimensions and policy concerns in relation to the deep and persistent digital divide that marks today's increasingly digitalized world. The digital divide encompasses various socio‐technological inequalities and inequities apparent within and across different groups, organizations, and geographic areas. Also linked to the growing Internet of Things, the digital divide generally refers to differences in information and communications technologies access and artificial intelligence applications and usage within social systems and among the countries of the world. Indicating different types and levels of socio‐technological engagement and impact, it is an issue of social, cultural, institutional, economic, and political inequality and stratification processes in which disadvantage and vulnerability, as well as privilege and power, are distributed. Related digital asymmetries are considered here in conceptual, theoretical, and applied terms relative to various issues as critical representations of relative divides characterized by socio‐spatial inequalities, inequities, and disparities in information and knowledge creation, access, opportunities, usage, and benefits. Also considered are aspirational goals for mitigating such asymmetries in related policy dialogues and directives, asserting possibilities for enhancing well‐being across sectors and peoples.