Technology Loses Glitter on Campaign Trail

Of the two technology position papers that were developed early on in the campaign, Obama's comes across as much more comprehensive and thought out.

For the most part, McCain's technology platform relies heavily on a variety of financial incentives to help businesses get a technological edge in a global economy.

By contrast, Obama's platform elaborately discusses an increased role for the government in cultivating and using technology.

Obama supports the idea of making government more transparent with the creation of a post of chief technology officer to help federal agencies get up to speed on employing the latest technological tools and practices.

He also wants to spend $150 billion over the next 10 years to tackle energy and environmental problems.

Among other things, the funds would be directed to help develop biofuels and plug-in hybrids as well as bolster research and development efforts for clean air projects.

He also wants to invest $10 billion a year over five years to get the U.S. health care system to adopt electronic health information systems.