“Much has been published on information technology, the information society, global or otherwise, information policy, information management and so on, but none has concentrated on the basics, on looking at the scene from the point of view of information or, as it usually manifests itself, the content of the systems.” In these words the author of this interesting and comprehensive publication, Michael W. Hill, provides an insight to the contents of this volume and the goal he has set himself. The author describes the aim as “lofty” but in my opinion one that has been reached in a style which is authoritative, interesting and which on occasions exhibits a wry sense of humour. The target audience for this book includes those new to the field of information, particularly in the information sector of the economy, libraries and in computer science, but also serves as a reminder to those already working in the information sector of the nature of the material we work with.
In Chapters 1 to 6 the author provides a thorough grounding on the subject being considered. Chapter 1 provides a general setting for information, looking at the historical context, asking if information always has the impact it should, and introducing the issue of information and social change. In Chapter 2: “The nature of information and knowledge” is described in a detailed manner, leading the reader through the issues clearly and in sufficient depth, but not too much. Chapter 3 outlines issues surrounding the quality and reliability of information. Chapters 4‐6 consider the nature of comÑpreÑhending, communicating and finally aspects of information, knowledge and document management. These first six chapters provide a valuable and thoughtful picture of what information is and its use, for the new information worker a valuable insight, for the rest of us a useful reminder.
Chapters 7‐9 each deal with “Information ethics”. In turn, looking at expectations and rights, duties and responsibilities, and intellectual property and data protection. These chapters between them analyse and describe the nature of information ethics well, retaining reader interest in what can be a complicated area.
Chapters 10 ‐14 introduce us to a number of areas of society, examining the various ways in which information has an impact looking at social and cultural issues, economics, the environment and information in politics and government.
The final chapter entitled: “The information society: are we now part of it and where is it heading?” is particularly intriguing. Very pertinently the author asks the fundamental question, whether or not we are living in an information society? In listing what has been reviewed in previous chapters, which also serves as a handy reminder of the major issues covered, and adding some additional matters, an attempt is made to answer the question. The list contains three headings: Information intensity; Communicating and computing; and Social, cultural, economic and political change. After evaluating the material in the lists the author concludes that perhaps the term “information” is currently but a passing trend in many of the guises which it used, though acknowledging that information is playing an increasingly important role in society. The term “electronic age” is suggested as an alternative, with the implication that it is information and communication technologies that are having a major impact on our lives. The author concludes by pondering the role of information in our society and its influence. The answer to the question raised can be found in these thoughts, but it would be a great shame for me to spoil these for you and I therefore suggest that you read the book.
This is an excellent book, comprehensive and thought provoking. The style of writing keeps the reader interested, even when you find yourself occasionally wishing to disagree with the opinion of the author, with a good sprinkling of humour for good measure. It is not often enough that I come across a book that I find hard to put down ‐‐ this was one.
