Postmodernist and consumerist influences on information consumption

Purpose – The statement “information is a difference that makes a difference” implies causal relationships between information bits. This relationship includes the use or consumption of information. It is this consumption of information in the context of information science, consumerism, postmodernism, and the vast information technology changes of the past decades that converge to create an environment in which the veracity and general quality of information is challenged. The purpose of this paper is to examine information consumption in this context. Design/methodology/approach – This paper will examine the consumption of information within the context of information science relevance theory, consumerism, postmodernism, and significant changes in information technology, providing some historical context and examining the impact of the convergence. Relevant arguments and theory will be presented as evidence of the impact of this convergence on the quality of information. Findings – Dimensions of information quality are examined in relation to consumerism and postmodernism. Postmodern thought embraces the market and consumerism. Information production (journalism, mass media) is yet another cultural product in the market. Information production cast into the market framework is influenced by the revised sequence of capital consumer markets where demand control through advertising and marketing and pursuit of additional surplus value impact the quality of information. This leads to biased and fragmented dissemination of information. Breakdown of traditional control structures is another side effect of this convergence, leading to prosumerism (amateur) information dissemination with similar impacts on information quality. Originality/value – This paper provides a cross-disciplinary examination of the current convergence of information science, postmodernism, and capital markets within the context of consumerism. It identifies evidence of the impact of this convergence on the reduced quality of information being disseminated and consumed and provides a basis for further discussion and examination.