Theoretical clarity is not 'Manicheanism': A reply to Marcia Bates

  • Authors:

  • Birger Hjørland

  • Affiliations:

  • Royal School of Library and Information Science, Denmark

  • Venue:
  • Journal of Information Science
  • Year:
  • 2011

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Abstract

It is argued that in order to establish a new theoretical approach to information science it is necessary to express disagreement with some established views. The 'social turn' in information science is not just exemplified in relation to the works of Marcia Bates but in relation to many different researchers in the field. Therefore it should not be taken personally, and the debate should focus on the substance. Professor Bates has contributed considerably to information science. In spite of this, some of her theoretical points of departure may be challenged. It is important to seek theoretical clarity, and this may involve a degree of schematic confrontation that should not be confused with theoretical one-sidedness, 'Manicheanism' or lack of respect.