Lifemedia for a wireless world : participatory democracy and the radio spectrum in Canada and Uruguay
Date
2012-10
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Publisher
Université du Québec à Montréal
Abstract
The radio spectrum is rapidly becoming the central medium through which society
engages in communication. Due to a variety of factors, formerly disparate forms of
radio communication (radio, television, cellular telephony, WiFi)
are converging
around the ethereal form of the spectrum. The future orientation of this convergence
depends greatly on the actors involved in the design of communications regulation,
technology and of its uses. This thesis details a comprehensive history of wireless
communication and regulation while constructing a new political economy of the
spectrum built on a foundation of social justice. It then presents an epistemological
approach that attempts to recalibrate society's relationship with the radio spectrum. I
propose that the spectrum, in that it is a natural part of our environment and occupies
such central role in our ability to exist as communicative social beings, must be
considered a form of “lifemedia”.
Its regulation thus must be held to the highest
level of participation, transparency and accountability.
The research project is built around an international comparative case study and
examines the capacity for public participation in spectrum policymaking
in Canada
and Uruguay. It relies upon extensive documentary evidence, interviews with lawmakers,
national and international regulators, civil society organizations, independent
experts, government ministers and representatives of the private sector. Diagnostics
are rendered concerning each country and practical policy recommendations are made
that speak not only to the specifics of spectrum policy but to the very fabric of
democratic society itself.
Description
Includes abstract in French
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Keywords
RADIO SPECTRUM, COMMUNICATION POLICY, TELECOMMUNICATIONS, CANADA, URUGUAY, SOCIAL JUSTICE, DEMOCRACY, PUBLIC PARTICIPATION, DIGITAL COMMONS, POLICY MAKING, SOCIAL PARTICIPATION, COMMUNICATION MEDIA, INFORMATION POLICY