John Buschman

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2006

Journal Title

Library Quarterly

Volume

76

Pages

3

Abstract

Librarianship and library and information science (LIS) has struggled with itstheoretical and epistemological basis - or lack thereof - for a long time. While this lack continues, there have been renewed efforts to explore various theoretical and philosophical positions and their meaning for librarianship and LIS research. This article explores the framework that Jurgen Habermas offers the field in terms of his interlocking work on history, epistemology, and social/economic critique and theory as part of that effort. Before addressing Habermas's thinking and its application to librarianship, a review of recent and relevant literature on epistemology and/or philosophy of librarianship and LIS is undertaken - much of which is grounded in the work of Michael Harris. That literature demonstrates an interrelated circle of problems, and the ability to address that circle is why it will be argued that Habermas's work forms a useful and compelling theoretical framework for the field.

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