“We are the most digital province”: an analysis of the technological imaginaries in the provincial public policies of San Luis

Abstract

This article deals with digitalisation policies in San Luis Province. It mainly addresses the
technological imaginaries that have underpinned their design and implementation for more than two
decades. In order to analyze this topic, some qualitative research work was conducted, in which 94 press
articles published in three important local newspapers from 2014 to 2024 were reviewed. By using critical
discourse analysis, the main technological imaginaries involved in the maximization of digitalisation in San
Luis were studied. The primary findings show a strong tendency to consider technology as a neutral tool at
society’s service, from an instrumental perspective. In addition, digital inclusion works in favour of
provincial distinction, by highlighting the peculiarity of San Luis over other states. Finally, the technical
factor is considered as a problem-solving tool in various social and urban domains, which enhances progress
and leads to an improvement of provincial rates.