Measuring information society: Dynamics of European data on usage of information and communication technologies in Europe since 1995

This paper discusses the alternative definitions of the so-called “information society” (IS) concept provided by the scientific community and argues for the need to multiply quantitative measurements of the penetration of information and communication technology (ICTs) within the various layers of society as a way to solve major theoretical and political issues. The central part of the paper consists of an in-depth analysis of survey data collected between 1995 and 1999 by the European Commission through its “Measuring IS” pan-European surveys. Contrasts among nations and demographic groups are highlighted and interpreted. By constructing an aggregated variable called the information and communication technology adoption scale (ICTAS), the paper looks at information technology in various groups are identified as spectacularly less inclined to use technologies, while trends indicate that further positive evolutions can be expected particularly for Southern countries of Europe if an appropriate policy mix is implemented in the framework of a re-launch of the “IS policy”.