Comparing the effects of mass media and telecommunications on economic development: A pooled time series analysis

Abstract

This study attempts to test the causal relationship between communication and economic development and compare the magnitude of the economic contributions of mass media and telecommunications. 17 year's data from 23 countries were collected and subjected to pooled time series analysis. It is found that while both mass media and telecommuni cations contribute to economic development, telecommunications tends to contribute more and manifest its economic effect more rapidly. The finding that mass media have delayed effects somewhat revives the early notion of "empathy" in development communication. In the meantime, the immediate effect of telecommunications detected in this study justifies many countries' policies that give priority is to telecommunication investment.