Relation and Growth of Internet Penetration Rate with Human Development Level from 2000 to 2010

Abstract

This study examines the relation of Internet penetration rate with human development level over the last decade. The main purpose is to investigate the possible existence of a digital divide between developed and developing countries during the last 10 years. Furthermore, it also explores how the growth of the Internet penetration rate in developed countries is compared to that of developing countries. UNDP Human Development Index is used to measure human development level, while Internet penetration rate is represented by the number of Internet user per 100 inhabitants of a country. The result of this study supports the argument that a digital divide exists because of this disparity in Internet penetration rates.