Looking at Information Technology from a Gender Perspective: The Call Centers in India

Abstract

The impact of information technology on womens work in the context of globalization has been viewed differently by feminist scholars depending on where they are located. As in the case of globalization the impact of information technology on womens work through globalization has been more evident in Asia. Examining the impact of information and communication technology on womens work in the context of globalization leads us to another issue -- differences pertaining to IT and womens work between the developed and the developing countries. In the former most of the literature on the impact of information technology on gender and work deals with the association of men with technology and power. In developing countries women are looking at this issue not only in terms of gender relations with the men in their own society but also at western domination over innovation and sources of technology. Globalization is based on the concept that the globe is a single unit for decision-making. It implies free movement of goods services and capital through out the world. However some critical issues emerge such as the extent to which globalization should be allowed to undermine the States capacity to formulate policies -- especially for the benefit of the poor. In India feminists have asked whether globalization should also connote free movement of labor trade and goods. Questions have been raised on womens health and environmental concerns and economic reforms. (authors)