Matter of Facts: The Value of Evidence in an Information Age

In this disruptive Orwellian age, where digital technologies have opened the door to a post-truth world, archives luminary Millar argues that authentic and accurate evidence is crucial for supporting a respectful, democratic, and self-aware society. His book explains the concept of evidence and discusses how records, archives, and data are essential sources of evidence for upholding rights, enforcing responsibilities, tracing family or community stories, and capturing and sharing memories. It also examines the impact of digital technologies on how records and information are created and used.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 30 July 2019
Publisher: American Library Association

In this era of disruption and Orwellian influences, the protection of authentic facts becomes paramount, especially as digital technologies have paved the way for a post-truth world where "alternative facts" can be readily embraced as valid. The significance of facts cannot be overstated, as they form the foundation of a respectful, democratic, and self-aware society. In his urgent manifesto, renowned archivist Millar makes a compelling case for the importance of authentic and accurate evidence in supporting and nurturing such a society. This enlightening treatise is a valuable resource for the general public, archive students, and working professionals alike.

Millar's book delves into the concept of evidence, highlighting its role in upholding rights, enforcing responsibilities, tracing family or community stories, and capturing and sharing memories. It emphasizes that records, archives, and data are not merely useful tools for our daily existence but also vital sources of evidence that will remain relevant in the present and future. Through numerous examples spanning from Mesopotamian clay tablets to World War II photographs to contemporary social media posts, Millar illustrates the critical significance of evidence in various aspects of life.

Furthermore, the book examines the impact of digital technologies on the creation and use of records and information. It explores how the digital realm has transformed the way we generate, store, and access information, raising concerns about the authenticity, reliability, and preservation of digital records. Millar's book serves as a timely reminder of the importance of preserving our own records and archives, not only for our personal benefit but also for the sake of future generations.

By encouraging readers to understand the significance of their own records and archives, Millar's stirring book empowers individuals to take ownership of their history and heritage. It serves as a call-to-arms for working professionals to prioritize the preservation and accessibility of records, ensuring that the stories and experiences of our past are preserved for generations to come. In conclusion, the safeguarding of authentic facts is a crucial endeavor in our disruptive Orwellian age. Millar's urgent manifesto provides a compelling argument for the importance of evidence in supporting a respectful, democratic, and self-aware society. Through his insightful book, Millar empowers readers to recognize the value of their own records and archives, fostering a sense of responsibility and stewardship for our collective history and heritage.

Weight: 276g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780838917718