Theories of the Information Society

By Frank Webster

Book Overview

Information is regarded as a distinguishing feature of our world. Where once economies were built on industry and conquest, we are now part of a global information economy. Pervasive media, expanding information occupations and the development of the internet convince many that living in an Information Society is the destiny of us all. Coping in an era of information flows, of virtual relationships and breakneck change poses challenges to one and all.

In Theories of the Information Society Frank Webster sets out to make sense of the information explosion, taking a sceptical look at what thinkers mean when they refer to the Information Society, and critically examining the major post-war approaches to informational development. The fourth edition of this classic study brings it up to date with new research and with social and technological changes - from the 'Twitter Revolutions' of North Africa, to financial crises that introduced the worst recession in a life time, to the emergence of social media and blogging - and reassesses the work of key theorists in the light of these changes.

More outspoken than in previous editions, Webster urges abandonment of Information Society scenarios, preferring analysis of the informatization of long-established relationships. This interdisciplinary book is essential reading for those trying to make sense of social and technological change in the post-war era. It addresses issues of central concern to students of sociology, politics, geography, communications, information science, cultural studies, computing and librarianship.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0415718791
• ISBN13: 9780415718790
• Release Date: March 2014
• Publisher: Routledge
• Length: 404 Pages
• Weight: 1.60 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 6.8" x 9.7"

Customer Reviews

must-read critical intro to information society theories

This book is a college graduate-level (perhaps precocious upper undergrad) critical introduction to various information society theories. The author admits early on that he does not believe we have entered a new "information age" even as he concedes various points--sometimes quite important points--that there have been big changes in society because of changes in technology, networks, and information flows. As a result of his stated biases, he sometimes comes across as more critical of those he doesn't agree with (Bell, Castells, etc.) than those he does (Giddens, etc.), although in each chapter he does try to show a critical perspective of each scholars' theories. There are two main strengths to this book. First, it gives a very nice "lay of the land" overview of many important social theorists regarding the information age, and thus is an excellent launching point for students who want to explore theorists further. Second, his skepticism regarding theories of information society should be welcomed even by those who do firmly believe that we are in an information society. He raises many interesting points that will give those people who largely buy into the information society beliefs (as I did moreso before reading this book) cause to rethink some assumptions, which is what scholarly activity is supposed to be about.

A fabulously straightforward review of a very complex issue.

An absolute must for anyone interested in the 'Information Society'. Webster tackles the fundamental questions other authors neatly sidestep; primarily, what is meant by the term 'Information Society', what foundation, if any, there is for the widespread acceptance of this 'new society' and an indepth look at alternative theories which stress continuity as opposed to revolution! On the whole a well balanced, well written, thoughtful account of a very challenging concept.