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In-formation on the prairie: Signs, patterns, systems and prairie dogs

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  • Beynon-Davies, Paul

Abstract

The concept of information is clearly foundational to the ‘information’ disciplines but lacking in a clear conceptual foundation. In this paper we propose that the concept is clearly overloaded and suggest that a new vocabulary is needed to enhance our powers of understanding and explanation. We argue that information is better situated at the intersection of signs, patterns and systems, which involves the enactment of forma (the substance of a sign), informa (the content of a sign) and performa (the use of signs in coordinated action). Within this perspective ‘information’ is considered an accomplishment not only of humans but also of animals. This leads us to use a well-documented case from the animal kingdom, that of communication amongst Gunnison prairie dogs, to both ground and expand upon significant elements from our conceptual framework. This we believe helps shed new light on what the juxtaposition of information with behaviour actually means.

Suggested Citation

  • Beynon-Davies, Paul, 2011. "In-formation on the prairie: Signs, patterns, systems and prairie dogs," International Journal of Information Management, Elsevier, vol. 31(4), pages 307-316.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ininma:v:31:y:2011:i:4:p:307-316
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ijinfomgt.2010.12.001
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Marcia J. Bates, 2006. "Fundamental forms of information," Journal of the American Society for Information Science and Technology, Association for Information Science & Technology, vol. 57(8), pages 1033-1045, June.
    2. Beynon-Davies, Paul, 2010. "Dances with bees: Exploring the relevance of the study of animal communication to informatics," International Journal of Information Management, Elsevier, vol. 30(3), pages 185-198.
    3. Beynon-Davies, Paul, 2007. "Informatics and the Inca," International Journal of Information Management, Elsevier, vol. 27(5), pages 306-318.
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    Cited by:

    1. Curry, Michael & Marshall, Byron & Kawalek, Peter, 2014. "IT artifact bias: How exogenous predilections influence organizational information system paradigms," International Journal of Information Management, Elsevier, vol. 34(4), pages 427-436.

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