The Information Society: A Study of Continuity and Change

by JohnFeather (Author)

• Used

  Paperback
  2004

  $3.25

  What is information? Who are the information rich and who are the information poor? How can there be equality of access for users in the light of the economic and cultural pressures that are placed upon information gatherers and keepers? Set against a broad historical backdrop, The Information Society explores the information revolution that continues to gather pace. The commercial value of information becomes increasingly important in a world where data can be transmitted in a split second. Information can become a political tool that can be abused as easily as it can be used. In analysing the different threads that make up the information society, John Feather looks at the ethics of information transfer in the context of the social relationship between the citizen and the state. This questioning, open-minded look at the information profession and its break-out from the traditional boundaries of librarianship will interest all information professionals. It is also invaluable for students on courses in information, librarianship and communications studies, where an understanding of the nature of the information society is an essential underpinning of more advanced work.

• Used

  Paperback
  2000

  $4.33

  What is information? Who are the information rich and who are the information poor? Set against a broad historical backdrop, this study explores the information society in the light of the economic and social pressures which are placed upon information gatherers and keepers. This third edition has been revised to take account of further rapid change in mass media in general and in the World Wide Web in particular. The commercial value of information to those who wish to access it and to those who wish to process and disseminate it becomes increasingly important in a world where information can be transmitted in split seconds. Information can become a political tool which can be abused as easily as it is used. In examining the differing threads that make up the information society, the author looks at the ehtics of information transfer in the context of the social relationship between the citizen and the state. Major contemporary issues examined include censorship, copyright, freedom of information and access to information. The inquisitive nature of this examination of the information profession and its exploration beyond the traditional boundaries of librarianship should make it useful to all information providers. It is also suitable for students of information, librarianship and information studies.