Electronic frontier as a metaphor

Abstract

This article examines the phenomenon of cyberspace and the Internet through the prism of the Frontier concept. Electronic Frontier is understood as one of the possible types, which can be highlighted in today's globalizing world. The author compares the "classical" and electronic frontier by comparing their basic elements: the main actors and institutions. Stages of formation of the electronic frontier are defined. The author concludes that the use of the frontier metaphor is limited. Notwithstanding this the metaphor can be very useful in studying of contemporary socio-economic, political and cultural processes taking place in the broader context of changing waves of innovation.