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ID: 139796

Is the phone mightier than the sword? cellphones and insurgent violence in Iraq / Shapiro, Jacob N; Weidmann, Nils B

Shapiro, Jacob N	Article
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Summary/Abstract

Does improved communication provided by modern cellphone technology affect the rise or fall of violence during insurgencies? A priori predictions are ambiguous; introducing cellphones can enhance insurgent communications but can also make it easier for the population to share information with counterinsurgents and creates opportunities for signals intelligence collection. We provide the first systematic micro-level test of the effect of cellphone communication on conflict using data on Iraq's cellphone network (2004–2009) and event data on violence. We show that increased mobile communications reduced insurgent violence in Iraq, both at the district level and for specific local coverage areas. The results provide support for models of insurgency that focus on noncombatants providing information as the key constraint on violent groups and highlight the fact that small changes in the transaction costs of cooperating with the government can have large macro effects on conflict.

Key Words

Iraq ; Mobile Communications ; Insurgent Violence ; Phone Mightier ; Cellphones ; Modern Cellphone Technology ;
Iraq's Cellphone Network

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ID: 094301

Market for wireless electricity: the case of India / Kumar, Ashish; Shankar, Ravi; Momaya, Kiran; Gupte, Sandeep

Kumar, Ashish	Journal Article
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2010.

Summary/Abstract

A wireless revolution has transformed telecoms in India and in other emerging markets. The electricity market, on the other hand, remains underdeveloped. We define Wireless Electricity as renewable energy produced within a few hundred meters of the point of consumption. A wireless revolution in electricity would solve the problem of electricity deficit, empower people at the bottom of the pyramid and mitigate the environmental impact of bringing hundreds of millions out of poverty as the Indian economy grows. Renewables are technically proven and economically viable in certain situations, but their use remains peripheral. The stark difference in the diffusion patterns in telecoms and electricity has been ignored by leaders in government, business and academics. We present common frameworks to explain the different directions of reform in telecoms and electricity. We explain some of the dynamics which prevent the diffusion of Wireless Electricity. We use a causal loop diagram to explain the status quo in the off-grid electricity market and propose changes which will lead to the formation of a market for Wireless Electricity. India has the entrepreneurial talent to develop this market-and the largest number of potential customers. The world will benefit as a result.

Key Words

Renewables ; Mobile Communications ; Decentralized Electricity

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