Presents an overview of the political economy approach to information studies. Political economy is defined, and its use in information research is described. Guidance is then provided for rethinking and renewing the assumptions and issues that the approach raises. Challenges from cultural studies and policy science are also discussed. (MES)

Provides an overview and comparison of the historical trends in information policy-making and recent proposals for the information infrastructure in the United States, the United Kingdom, France, the European Union, and Canada. The role of the private sector, including transnational corporations, is also considered. (MES)