Information systems and social theory: an essay

Abstract

The work is an essay on Information Systems Theory and the possible contributions of social theory to it. It is proposed an Information Paradox as the thematic or problematic of the IS theory, and based on this paradox four paradigms are formalized and reviewed: data processing, decision analysis, inquiring systems and societal. At the same time social questions - unintended consequences of IS - are introduced and the main literature sources to these issues are indicated. In a second step three main social issues connected to IS are revised based on a

Marxist, Durkeinnian, and Weberian perspective. These three main issues are: a) IS paradigms as ideologies; b) IS as a basis for power and social reality construction; and c) IS as a basis for social control and a "managed society". Finally, conclusions are drawn in regard to the existing connections between the paradigms

and the social theory.