<i>One study suggests that increasing broadband penetration in a typical American state by a percentage point raises employment by 0.2-0.3% a year. The idea that governments should be pouring money into broadband seems so self-evident that operators and equipment-makers have been rubbing their hands with glee.</i><p>Why not simply give individuals money, and let them set their own priorities? Then, if they <i>wanted</i> broadband, they could buy broadband. If they instead felt that <i>other</i> tools or needs were more pressing, they could buy those instead.