Abstract

Because of the important roles played by the concept of information, different disciplines deal with it with different approaches according to their different purposes and historical background. Western information studies can be classified into nine types with respect to their research approaches. Mathematic approach aims to provide accurate mathematic methods of measuring the quantity of information represented by the mathematic theory of communication, theory of computation and combination theory. Semantic approach handles the semantic aspect of information ignored by mathematic approach, providing a method of measuring the quantity of semantic content of information. Logic approach applies the concept of information into logic studies which brings logic new lights. Dynamic theories of information concern with the causal dynamic processes of information that aim to articulate the relations between information and causation providing a scientific foundation for science of information. Theory of signaling game tries to solve the problem of emergence of signals with cooperation game theory in naturalistic spirit. Pan-informationalism treats information as a basic property of the universe like matter and energy. Information is not the one which needs to be explained but an explanation for other things. Following steps of Peircean semiotics, semiotic approach proposes insightful theories of information. Philosophical approach focuses on the concept of information and philosophical implications of information including philosophical reflection of information and philosophy of information as first philosophy. Transdisciplinary approach thinks that information is a complex phenomenon with multiple emergent levels and thus needs transdisciplinary studies. Although the concept of information has different meanings in different approaches, they can learn from each other laying solid foundation for future studies of information.

Key Words

Information; Measurement; Semantics; Logics; Information dynamics; Signaling game; Semiotics; Philosophy of information; Transdisciplinary studies

Citation: Zhou, L. 'A Review on Approaches of Western Information Studies' [J]. Journal of Dialectics of Nature, 2017, 39(1): 137-154.

Download: A Review on Approaches of Western Information Studies