Marginalization of indigenous voices in the information age: a case study of cell phones in the rural Congo.

While awareness about the study and empowerment of indigenous, marginalized groups has been brought to light since the 1960s with postcolonial movements, research into marginalization and individuals thereof has been left to arcane, outdated disciplines; and thus, has yet to take root in the wider scientific community and industry. Indeed, with upgraded wearables on the rise, most information and communication technologies [ICTs] research describes marginalization as a lack of access to technology, leaving aside the marginalized and their lives. For example, while cell phones are becoming the most ubiquitous devices of our times, they need masts and their guards in order to best function. Using capability approach, this study conducted open-ended interviews with 16 mast guards in the rural Congo to inquire into their lived experiences about ways in which cell phones generated development. The paper proposed the working, living conditions of concerned individuals as a research lens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]