FUNDAMENTAL EQUATION OF INFORMATION SCIENCE

A PROPOSAL FOR REFORMULATION BASED ON HYPEREXPOSURE AND HYPERCONSUMPTION OF DIGITAL CONTENT OBJECTS

Abstract

Information and Communication Technologies have expanded the possibilities for the production and circulation of digital content. As a result, we observe the widespread circulation of digital materials online, which are subject to appropriation and interpretation by individuals, including data, information, misinformation, and entertainment. In this context, a significant amount of time is devoted to accessing, consuming, and interacting with these objects, contributing to the overexposure to and overconsumption of this content. The question arises: how can the equation proposed by Brookes be reformulated to highlight the problems arising from the overexposure to and overconsumption of digital content objects? The study aims to propose a reformulation of the equation described by Bertram Brookes in order to adapt it to the contemporary scenario marked by overexposure to and overconsumption of digital content objects. Regarding methodological aspects, the research is based on the quadripolar method, with a theoretical-propositional character within a deductive epistemology, and employs a narrative literature review. The results present the reformulation of the fundamental equation, indicating that the overexposure to and overconsumption of digital content objects can lead to variations in the structure of knowledge, but may also result in disruption of emotional and/or cognitive structures. The concluding remarks highlight the importance of research that delves deeper into the interrelationships between information, health, technology, and society in the field of Information Science, as well as the proposal of strategies—grounded in the perspectives of digital, informational, and media literacy—aimed at strengthening individuals’ competencies to address contemporary information-technology challenges.