GRIN Verlag New Media and Women Empowerment: A study on women internet users

Thesis from the year 2009 in the subject Communications - Multimedia, Internet, New Technologies, , course: Ph.D, language: English, abstract: Imagine a world where digital access unlocks potential, yet deeply entrenched societal norms cast a long shadow - this is the reality for many women in Tamil Nadu, India. This compelling exploration delves into the transformative, yet often paradoxical, role of the internet in shaping women's empowerment within this culturally rich and complex region. Challenging conventional narratives, this study meticulously examines how new media technologies, specifically the internet, intersect with existing gender dynamics, literacy levels, and socio-economic realities to either propel or impede progress towards gender equality. Through insightful analysis and rigorous research, the book uncovers the multifaceted ways in which internet access influences women's access to employment opportunities, political participation, and overall agency in Tamil Nadu. Beyond the local context, the narrative broadens to encompass a global perspective, drawing comparisons with diverse countries - from the United Kingdom and the United States to Ghana, China, Nigeria, Jordan, Latin America, Somalia, Cambodia, and Canada - to illuminate the varied impacts of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) and Computer-Mediated Communication (CMC) on women's lives worldwide. Readers will gain a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities that digital connectivity presents, including the amplification of marginalized voices, the rise of online activism, and the persistent digital divide that threatens to exclude the most vulnerable. Discover how the internet acts as both a catalyst for change and a mirror reflecting deeply ingrained societal inequalities, offering crucial insights for policymakers, academics, and anyone passionate about fostering true women's empowerment in the digital age. Explore the intricate relationship between internet usage, new media, communication technologies, and the empowerment of women, and understand how these factors contribute to gender equality in the specific context of Tamil Nadu. Uncover the status of women in the region, their literacy rates, and their political representation, and understand the role of the internet in their lives. This book provides a robust analysis of women's empowerment, offering a new perspective on the interplay of technology and social change.