Information+Activism

= Information Activism = toc An information activist is "a vigorous advocate of knowledge gained through study, communication, research, or instruction." (1) Information activists believe that free access to the sum of human knowledge is an unalienable right.

There are various social, political, and historical reasons for advocating for unfettered dissemination of information. Many believe that unregulated access to information stimulates the advancement and evolution of society. Julian Assange, self-described information activist and founder of WikiLeaks, stated that "[Information activists] believe a richer intellectual and historical record that is fuller and more accurate is in itself intrinsically good, and gives people the tools to make intelligent decisions." (2) Access to information may improve human lives on a very basic level - for example, helping a person find clean water or provide medical care in the absence of a professional - or in a broader political sense - such as exposing human rights violations.

History
The term "information activism" was coined in the 21st century, but some information professionals maintain that because advocating for improved access to information is a fundamental goal of the information professional, information activism has existed within the profession for centuries.

Technology and Humanitarianism
Information activism is intrinsically tied to web technologies in today’s society. Not only do increased access to and knowledge of the use of these technologies help individuals live and succeed on a daily basis, they also help NGOs and human rights activists disseminate information effectively.

Tactical Tech
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Making Complex Data Accessible
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Internet Censorship
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Media Transparency and Objectivity
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Copyright and Digital Rights Management
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** Examples of Information Activism Organizations **
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 * Wikileaks**

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 * Librarians Without Borders**

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 * Tactical Technology Collective**

** Publishers **
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 * Litwin Books**

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 * Library Juice Press**

** References **
1. Molaro, Anthony G. (2009). "On my mind: Information Activist." //American Libraries//, 40(12), 37.

2. Moss, Stephens. (13 July 2010). "Julian Assange: the whistleblower." //The Guardian//. []

3. Hickman, Andrew. 19 January 2010. "Info-activism: using technology to force social change." []

An information activist is “a vigorous advocate of knowledge gained through study, communication, research, or instruction.” (1) Information activists believe that free access to the sum of human knowledge is an unalienable right.

There are various social, political, and historical reasons for advocating for unfettered dissemination of information. Many believe that unregulated access to information stimulates the advancement and evolution of society. Julian Assange, self-described information activist and founder of WikiLeaks, stated that “[Information activists] believe a richer intellectual and historical record that is fuller and more accurate is in itself intrinsically good, and gives people the tools to make intelligent decisions.” (2) Access to information may improve human lives on a very basic level - for example, helping a person find clean water or provide medical care in the absence of a professional - or in a broader political sense - such as exposing human rights violations.