A distinction that I’m not sure I buy…

“Scientists create and collect their own data, while humanists work with data collected by others” (heard at the DLF Cyberinfrastructure and Humanities panel).


Thoughts?

3 Responses to “A distinction that I’m not sure I buy…”

  1. Jeremy Says:

    I can KINDA see it, but like you I’m not sure I buy into it.

    History to me, for example, is done using “data collected by others”. That is to say, primary sources that are, in essence, “secondary” from the actual events or realities they supposedly describe. Of course, humanists create and collect their own data as well, as you yourself have done with your video store project. Humanists “create” their own data from other data sources as well; this is what interpretation essentially is, it seems to me.

    I’m not sure what exactly the value is in the statement in question. What was the speaker trying to get at? What’s the “So What?” factor?

  2. Nina Says:

    Josh —

    Once again, I am caught without your email address, but this seemed like something that would interest you. Forgive the hijacking of your comments thread. :-)

    - Nina

    Video Trade Magazine To Undergo a Name-Change

    Saying that it was reacting to “the dramatic changes in the retailing, distribution and production of digital home entertainment,” the trade publication Video Store magazine announced Tuesday that it will change its name to Home Media Retailing beginning with its Jan. 16 issue. Publisher Don Rosenberg observed that in recent months the magazine has expanded its coverage to include the online home entertainment business as well as electronic games and music DVDs.

  3. Michael Says:

    So all that archival work I do is not work? What have I not been smoking!

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