Thinking about the information/knowledge society

Abstract

This paper outlines some key lines of inquiry for the discussion of the conceptualization of the information/ knowl- edge society, from a social/theoretical perspective. Some elements of the so-called information society are discussed, such as: technology, economics, work, networks, etc...It is argued on the subject -often made- that recent techno- logical changes have given rise to a different type of society, and if -indeed- this is a new model of society or if we have a new role of information in the same system, but in a different scenario. It highlights the fact that a new kind of society would mean that the (theoretical) knowledge will drive decision making in all areas of life. On the other hand, reference is made to both the ethical and ideological aspects of information to show that it is not an isolated phenomenon but responds to different contexts and interests. Also, it refers to the perspectives and approaches from which one can address this issue, since this is a multifaceted topic. Finally, it discusses the role of the librarian in this scenario.