The new communication services - Their risks and benefits for a nation

It is pointed out that the growth of information-oriented societies presents problems of major concern to developed Western countries, such as Canada. An investigation of problem areas is conducted, taking into account the risks and benefits of new forms of data communication, national sovereignty, the impact of an introduction of new communication services on employment, the trend toward an information economy, and institutional and regulatory impacts. It is found that a national policy for the coordinated development of new communication networks is needed to maximize the benefits and minimize the risks for a nation.