The Problem of Information: An Introduction to Information Science: An Introduction to Information Science

by Douglas Raber

Information can be conceptualized in two fundamentally yet contradictory ways_it appears in the world as both a physical and a cognitive phenomenon. The dilemma information specialists face is similar to that of physicists who must cope with light as both a wave and a particle. Unlike physics, however, information science has yet to develop a unified theory that unites the contradictory conceptions of its essential theoretical object. While there are numerous books today that address information science as a scholarly discipline, for the most part they assume a prior knowledge of the field. The Problem of Information provides an accessible introduction to the essential concepts and research issues of information science while exploring the indeterminate nature of information as a theoretical object. Signifying how information science contributes to the disciplines from which it borrows, this book provides insight into computer science, cognitive psychology, semiotics, sociology, and political science. Designed specifically for the beginner student new to the field of information science.

280 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2003

Reviews

[Mark · Rating 3 out of 5]

See the following link for 4 more links to comments on this book, summed up in the following:

http://marklindner.info/blog/2007/12/...

Despite my many (and valid) complaints about this book, it was a very productive book for me. If one looks closely at my “Some things read …” posts while and after I read this book you will see a multitude of sources cited by Raber. There are still some I acquired and haven’t read and many more I “need” to acquire.

I really, really wish it was edited better. The topic is so very important. It deserves an excellent book and not one that the reader has to slog through thanks to poor editing and a style that could use a bit of tweaking so that the reader knows which arguments are the author’s and those of others’ which he is presenting for consideration.

[Roberto Gejman · Rating 1 out of 5]

Not useful

The author keeps on an on describing what he calls the problems or contradictions in information science, without even trying to solve those. He misses the opportunity of simply creating appropriate distinctions between the various dimensions of the information phenomena. Boring, like a whinnying person usually is.

[Melissa]

Needed a proofreader who could stay awake. Interesting topics covered (for the information specialist), but it could use a bit more pizzazz.