Tech Globalism vs. Tech Realism: Navigating the Digital Divide

The research paper is an explorative study that aims to understand tech globalism and tech realism and how they relate to the modern technoscape. The study has two goals: firstly, it aims to understand the theoretical foundations of both these perspectives. Secondly, the research wants to investigate the nature of technoscape, whether it aligns more closely with tech realism or globalism. Through comparative analysis, the study found that while techno-globalism fostered cooperation through international institutions such as the ITU, TRIPS, and similar initiatives. Techno-realism, on the other hand, peddled competition as evident by practices such as tech denial, tech censorship, a separate internet connection, and exclusive access to international digital markets. Analysing the modern technoscape, the research found that while the volume of cross-data flow has increased manifold, states have also placed restrictions. This is to safeguard their national security against perceived threats and preserve digital sovereignty. Technological diffusion across borders is subject to sensitivity to state interests and security. Low-tech products usually don’t face restrictions like hightech products, which are subjected to export controls, supply chain constraints, and trade barriers. The restrictions on tech-related trade have started polarisation, where new tech ecosystems are developing. There is a great disparity in internet connectivity between the developing and developed countries, limiting equal growth opportunities. Analysing these results, the research concludes that the technoscape is oscillating between managed interdependence and tech blocs. The final result is subject to international law and cooperation