Information Systems and the Humanities: A Symbiotic Relationship? / J.H. Kroeze
Abstract
The lecture explores the nature of the relationship between the study fields of
Information Systems and the humanities. Although literature on Humanities
Computing states in principle that there is a bi-directional, beneficial symbiotic
relationship, most studies and reflections investigate only the application of
information technology in the humanities. This suggests that the relation is
commensalistic rather that mutualistic. However, studies do exist that implement
theoretical constructs borrowed from the humanities in various aspects of
Information Systems. Therefore, the speaker pleads that more recognition be given to the prediscipline of Humanities-enriched Information Systems and proposes theoretical and practical ways to make the field more independent.