Domain analytical information and knowledge organization: investigating the externalist and internalist conception of information

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to discuss and clarify a possible realist foundation of domain analysis and knowledge organization, and in this vein, investigate into how the concept of information is to be understood at a lower but necessary conceptual level in domain analysis.Design/methodology/approachThe paper investigates into the foundation of domain analysis as formulated by Birger Hjørland, and develops a realist framework for domain analytical information and knowledge organization based on critical realism.FindingsInformation can meaningfully be considered as the prerequisite for domain analysis, and critical realism may provide for a realist ontological framework for domain analysis and knowledge organization.Originality/valueThe paper includes new insights into the foundation of information and domain analysis.