Another reason computer networks are not used more widely and creatively is technophobia.

ECONOMIST: Wiring corporate Japan

Feeding off a mix of millennial angst and residual technophobia, Wobbler is just one of numerous virus hoaxes circulating by e-mail.

BBC: A - Z: Hack attack

Although "genetically modified" products could alleviate famine, water shortages and disease for millions, and even lead to the development of edible vaccines incorporated into fruits and vegetables, Annan's technophobia is no surprise.

FORBES: Commentary

Simple technophobia is not usually the reason.

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In its own unusual way, Vita Needle proves that by changing a little to accommodate an older workforce being more flexible about working hours, tolerating older people's technophobia (the fax machine has been accepted, but computerisation is still at least a year away) and, above all, stressing trust it is possible to gain a lot.

ECONOMIST: Can America��s workforce grow old gainfully?