The Impact of the Growth of E-commerce on Consumption Inequality – A Systematic Review
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School of Business |
Bachelor's thesis
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Authors
Date
2024
Department
Major/Subject
Mcode
Degree programme
Bachelor’s programme in Economics
Language
en
Pages
29+10
Series
Abstract
The growth of e-commerce has been influential in reshaping consumption patterns and access to goods and services globally. This thesis systematically reviews the existing literature to assess how the growth of e-commerce impacts consumption inequality, which refers to inequalities in the ability of different socioeconomic groups to consume goods and services. PRISMA guidelines were used for reporting of results. Findings reveal a complex impact where e-commerce both reduces and intensifies consumption inequality depending on contextual factors. While e-commerce has the potential to reduce consumption inequality by improving access to markets, the digital divide deepens pre-existing inequalities in less developed regions. This thesis highlights key socioeconomic, geographic, technological, economic, political, and cultural factors that influence how e-commerce affects consumption inequality. Policymakers are recommended to address digital inclusion and ensure equitable access to the benefits of e-commerce to prevent the widening of consumption inequality. This review contributes to a deeper understanding of the role of digital infrastructure and socioeconomic factors in shaping e-commerce's broader economic implications.Description
Thesis advisor
Murto, PauliKeywords
e-commerce, consumption, inequality, digital, divide, systematic, literature, review