Info 218: Concepts of Information

As it's generally used, "information" is a collection of notions, rather than a single coherent concept. In this course, through readings, discussions, exercises, and lectures, we'll examine various conceptions of information based in information theory, philosophy, social science, law, economics, and history. Issues include: How compatible are these conceptions; can we talk about "information" in the abstract? What work do these various notions play in discussions of the public sphere, the media, the political process and political science, economics, organization studies, and just plain search? We'll also explore the implications of the range of conceptions for "information studies" and "the information society"?

Classes:

Tues 1-2:30
Thu 2-3:30

Room:

205 South Hall

Instructors:

PAUL DUGUID, School of Information

Phone: (510) 643-3894 (but email is surer:)
duguid-at-ischool-dot-berkeley-dot-edu
Web Page

GEOFFREY NUNBERG, School of Information

Phone: (510) 643-3894 (but email is surer:)
nunberg-at-berkeley-dot-edu
Web Page

Office:

203A South Hall

Office Hours:

Duguid: Wednesday 10:30-12:00 (by appointment)

Nunberg: Tuesday 2:00-3:00 (by appointment)

Email List:

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