The motivation of this edited book is to generate an understanding about
information, related concepts and the roles they play in the modern,
technology permeated world. In order to achieve our goal, we observe how
information is understood in domains, such as cosmology, physics,
biology, neuroscience, computer science, artificial intelligence, the
Internet, big data, information society, or philosophy. Together, these
observations form an integrated view so that readers can better
understand this exciting building-block of modern-day society.
On the surface, information is a relatively straightforward and
intuitive concept. Underneath, however, information is a relatively
versatile and mysterious entity. For instance, the way a physicist looks
at information is not necessarily the same way as that of a biologist, a
neuroscientist, a computer scientist, or a philosopher. Actually, when
it comes to information, it is common that each field has its domain
specific views, motivations, interpretations, definitions, methods,
technologies, and challenges.
With contributions by authors from a wide range of backgrounds,
Understanding Information: From the Big Bang to Big Data will appeal
to readers interested in the impact of 'information' on modern-day life
from a variety of perspectives.