Examining the impacts of information and communication technology (ICT) on national development and wellbeing: A global perspective

The impacts of information and communications technology (ICT) on national development and wellbeing is a current research issue. By integrating four World Bank datasets and World Happiness Report’s global wellbeing dataset, this study analyzes the impacts of ICT on national development and wellbeing in 124 economies. There are several significant findings based on multiple regression analysis. First, Internet, mobile, and broadband subscription rates are significant predictors for logged GDP per capita. Second, broadband subscription rate is a significant predictor for perceptions of corruption. Third, Internet and broadband penetration rates are significant predictors for subjective wellbeing, social support and healthy life expectancy. Finally, fixed broadband and fixed telephone subscription rates are significant predictors for freedom to make life choices. Interestingly, fixed telephone subscription rate inversely predicts freedom to make life choices. The findings of this study bring updated insights into ICT impacts on national development and wellbeing around the world.