Foundations for Science of Information: Reflection on the Method of Inquiry

  • Marcin J. Schroeder
Keywords: Methodology of Information Science, Philosophy of Information Science, Definition of Information

Abstract

The paper considers necessary conditions for establishing information science as a scientific autonomous disci- pline. The lack of a commonly accepted definition of information is not as threatening as it may seem, as each study within the discipline may choose an own definition, as well as an own philosophical framework, when there are some alternatives to choose between. More important is the development of a common methodology of inquiry and some range of standard questions regarding the concept of information. Also, it is important to develop some standards of inquiry, which would make information scientific studies accessible to philosophical analysis and reflection. In turn, contributions of information science to the resolution of problems identified within philosophy will give the best measure of maturity for information sci- ence as a discipline.

Author Biography

Marcin J. Schroeder
Marcin J. Schroeder, Ph.D. educated in Poland and United States in theoretical physics and mathematics. His research interests go beyond these original fields of expertise and include history and philosophy of science, culture studies, philosophical aesthetics, etc. In information science, his interests are focused recently on integration of information in all its aspects, from philosophical to mathematical modeling. Since 2004 Professor and Dean of Academic Affairs at Akita International University, Akita, Japan.
Published
2011-10-30
Section
Special Issue: Towards a New Science of Information