Information in popper’s 'world 3'

epistemology of objective knowledge and information science

Abstract

This study reflects on epistemological foundations of information science. It follows methods compatible with epistemological reflection, based on a bibliographic research of authors and themes relevant to the construction of the argument. It analyzes the works recovered through the critical interpretation of their theses. The hypothesis that mobilizes the discussion is that the objective theory of knowledge, from which karl popper's notion of 'world 3' results, has relevant consequences for an epistemological conception of information and, consequently, of information science. It presents an interpretation of 'world 3', in line with the foundations of information science, based on the examination of the evidence found in Popper's own works. Works by authors of information science who refer to Popper's theories are discussed in order to substantiate the interpretative line of the argument. It concludes by an identification between Popper's 'world 3' and the human culture. This results in the notion of an evolutionary process of information, in which information science plays a relevant role. In this image, information science would have the function of shaping the environment, replacing disordered information with information cultivated and created for human productive interests.