New briefs are available to subscribers to Social Technologies' Global Lifestyles project:
The Internet in Africa
A Sub-Saharan Web Starts to Take Shape
Despite decades of investment, sub-Saharan Africa's Internet connectivity remains among the world's lowest. Recently, however, cheaper wireless networking, rapid spread of Internet-ready mobiles, and the rise of a regional innovation culture have begun to help millions of Africans access the Internet for the first time.
Wildcard--The Male Pill
Hormonal Birth Control for the Other Half
A growing body of positive results from human trials--along with recent surveys that show most men and women are open to the concept--could help make male hormonal contraception (MHC) a reality in the next two decades. Wide adoption of MHC would change the balance of contraceptive choices, increase men's control over conception, and potentially raise new issues between the sexes.
Country Profile--Argentina
Demography, Business Conditions, and Consumer Life
A World 2 country in South America, Argentina is second only to Brazil in terms of geographic and economic size in the region. Business conditions are moderate, with corruption a substantial problem. Argentines are relatively well-off for World 2, and are consuming again after enduring a severe economic crash in 2001.
Chinese Home Design
An Interview with Zhu Xueyan of Tongji Fame
Social Technologies interviewed Zhu Xueyan, co-founder of the Shanghai design and architecture firm Tongji Fame, to talk about home design trends and the state of design in China. Interior design tastes are changing rapidly as the nation and its consumers gain economic and cultural clout. But Chinese at all income levels remain price-sensitive, which tends to limit their interest in sustainable designs or other innovations.
Leave a comment