Birth of Modern Facts: How the Information Revolution Transformed Academic Research, Governments, and Businesses

This book explores how information has evolved since the mid-nineteenth century, becoming more specialized by discipline, organized, and easier to manage and access. It builds on prior books by the author, studying how information became a central feature of modern society.

Format: Hardback
Length: 462 pages
Publication date: 19 January 2023
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

This captivating book delves into the fascinating evolution of information since the mid-nineteenth century, presenting a compelling argument that it has undergone a remarkable transformation. It asserts that information has not only increased in quantity but also become increasingly specialized by discipline, encompassing fields such as mathematics, science, political science, and more. Moreover, the organization of information has become more structured, making it easier to manage and access.

The increase in information volume can be attributed to a multitude of innovations, including the electrification of communications and the development of computers. However, it is also worth noting that the organization of facts and knowledge by discipline has played a significant role in this growth. By dividing information into specific domains, it becomes more manageable and accessible, enabling individuals and organizations to focus on their areas of interest and expertise.

In order to explore the intricate details of how information has evolved, the book takes a comprehensive approach. It examines the contributions of major disciplines to shaping the nature of modern information, devoting chapters to the most prominent ones. These disciplines include mathematics, which has played a pivotal role in the development of algorithms and data analysis, science, which has provided the foundation for scientific research and discovery, and political science, which has influenced the formation of public policy and governance.

Furthermore, the book argues that understanding the features of information that have evolved is crucial for those who work in fields that deal with their very construct and application. Computer scientists, for instance, can gain valuable insights into the evolution of information systems and the challenges they face by studying the history of information. Similarly, individuals exploring social media can gain a deeper understanding of the impact of information on society by examining the historical context in which it has developed.

This book represents a culmination of more than twenty years of dedicated research and study into the role of information in modern society. Building on prior works, including All the Facts: A History of Information in the United States since 1870 (OUP, 2016) and Building Blocks of Society: History, Information Ecosystems, and Infrastructures (R&L, 2021), the author delves into the intricate details of how information has become a central feature of our lives.

In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the evolution of information since the mid-nineteenth century. It provides valuable insights into the factors that have contributed to its growth, the specialization of information by discipline, and the organization of knowledge. By examining the contributions of major disciplines and the impact of information on various fields, the book offers valuable guidance to those who work in subjects that deal with its very construct and application. As such, it is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex and ever-changing world of information.

Weight: 840g
Dimension: 159 x 237 x 39 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538173909