City Research Online

Abstract

The relationship between information and complexity is analysed, by way of a detailed literature analysis. Complexity is a multi-faceted concept, with no single agreed definition. There are numerous approaches to defining and measuring complexity and organisation, all involving the idea of information. Conceptions of complexity, order, organization and ‘interesting order’ are inextricably intertwined with those of information. Shannon’s formalism captures information’s unpredictable creative contributions to organized complexity; a full understanding of information’s relation to structure and order is still lacking. Conceptual investigations of this topic should enrich the theoretical basis of the information science discipline, and create fruitful links with other disciplines which study the concepts of information and complexity.

Publication Type:	Article
Additional Information:	This is the peer reviewed version of the following article: Bawden, D., Robinson, L., 'Waiting for Carnot': Information and complexity, Journal of the Association for Information Science and Technology, which has been published in final form by Wiley. This article may be used for non-commercial purposes in accordance With Wiley Terms and Conditions for self-archiving.
Subjects:	Z Bibliography. Library Science. Information Resources > Z665 Library Science. Information Science
Departments:	School of Communication & Creativity > Media, Culture & Creative Industries > Library & Information Science
SWORD Depositor:	Symplectic Administrator

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