The Definition of Information Science

Information is often considered to be the ultimate solution to uncertainty; it determines the nature and definition of an object, its attributes and its essence. The concept of information is applicable not only in the scientific domain but in the social and even the mundane domains as well. We live in a world where information circulates through everyday communication and the Internet; therefore, it is imperative for a person to be able to interpret this information in a proper manner so that he or she can come to the right conclusions. However, the interpretation of information is not a one-time process; instead, it is a continual process till the information reaches a consensus. This consensus can be described as a standard of agreement on a particular subject or topic which can be referred to as a “common view”.

Information can also be considered as a test of knowledge or of a discipline in itself; this happens when we see the complete definition of a particular subject under analysis. The concept of information is used very extensively in science and mathematics as a means of arriving at a precise result which is not a mere assumption or an educated guess. In this sense of viewing information, it is seen as a constant process in which the theoretical framework is coupled with real data and the resultant information is formed into a definite shape. It is also seen that the definition of “information” refers to a set of specific values which can be seen as being related to the operation of a process in which data are accumulated and form a set of definite patterns.

The process of information science thus helps in deriving concepts of science, technology and business in a consistent manner. However, information science also incorporates aspects of mathematics like statistics, engineering and computing. It also draws on the theories of accounting, geometry and computer science. The use of information science is widespread in the fields of business, law, medicine, engineering, economics, telecommunications, marketing, information technology and political science. The definition of “information” is actually a broad one and includes many other subtopics like “processes”, “processes of information” and “effects of information”. Thus, information science encompasses a wide variety of topics and disciplines whose interaction is a central focus of research and theory building.