Dr. Neil Hair

For some time now the US government has been talking about replacing the traditional i-94 visas normally distributed to nations of a travel agreement at the point of entry (usually on the flight itself). Homeland security have taken the decision to issue online visas three days in advance of travel via an online only process. Whats interesting about this approach is the digital divide it creates. There are still of course millions of people without access to the internet at home or work. Several issues come to mind as they relate to societal change. At what point do we except that 'the majority' of people have internet access? 99%? What is the tipping point? Will other governments follow suit in the name of efficiency and expediency? Should provisions for non internet users be made? Is society happy to relegate non internet users to the role of social outcasts? What about the damage this could cause to the tourist industry? Will other technologies follow suit? Is it conceivable for instance that if you dont have a cell phone you cant bank with certain establishments? My fear is that these changes will give foreign travelers just another reason not to experience the States and all it has to offer. Perhaps if we were all a little more market focused we might all get where we want to be (I for one would have loved the option to fill these forms out online and so also for my parents when they visit me – it takes away the hassle – but should this be mandatory at the expense of the flush non internet using tourist looking to spend their hard earned savings?). I cant see corporations adopting the attitude that 'you buy from us online or not at all.' Should governments?