Information Theory Critique

A Scientific Theory...Explanation of Data...

An information source, a receiver, and noise; how does it all connect? For anyone who may read such terms without an explanation may be confused; however, communication students are fortunate to have Shannon and Weaver's simple explanation to make sense of the above terms. The two theorists educate others on their information theory using the scientific method. In order to develop their theory there was a significant amount of research which was completed. The most familiar data that was collected was through the work of Shannon as he researched linguistics and his work with Bell Laboratories. Further proving the extent to which this theory is scientific later researchers who branched off this theory also collected data such as the case of Wilson Taylor's work.

Predictions of the Future...

Not only does the information theory explain the basic concept of a communicator modulating (coding) a message as a receiver demodulates (decodes) a message; the theory helps us understand data which allows one to focus on the five features of the theory. These features include: the information source, transmitter, noice source, receiver, and destination. With the use of these features and other concepts such as bit, the theorists are able to begin to apply the concepts of their theory to make predictions pertaining to the future. In reference to the bit one can calculate what the way in which a conversation may take place allowing them to reduce entropy based on their prediction. Another example of the theorists' predictions includes the possiblitiy to predict interuptions in a conversation allowing one to avoid unwanted distractions such as noise.

Relative Simplicity and Hypotheses That Can Be Tested...

Even though the path which communication follows may be perceived as extremely complicated to one who does not study communication, these theorists have successfully met the standard of simplifying the theory. As the information theory is considered the fundamental basis for all other theories it is important to note that the theorists could test their hypotheses proving the theory reliable. The theorists showed how the theory applies in both the categories of humans and machines. With the theory Shannon and Weaver developed they were able to show that humans and machines(especially telephones) could follow a simple process to receive a message.

Practical Utility of a Theory...

This simplistic theory has been applied multiple times since its invention, therefore, proving the final aspect of a scientific theory which implies practical utility. With consideration to practical utility Information Theory plays an important role in many situations. One which everyone can come to appreciate is the incident of an emergency telephone call. With the occurence of such an event one can realize the importance of clear communication and the need to be able to predict the path of communication. For anyone who has ever had to rely on an emergency phone call for help can offer futher imput on how clear communication is essential in everyday life. Such an example should make us all appreciate the work theorists continuously accomplish to help improve communication.

Final Thought About Shannon and Weaver's Theory

As it is obvious that the Information Theory is a foundation for which many other theories branch off I think it is also important to consider the convience for understanding how communication takes place. By consider Shannon and Weaver founders of communication theory we can appreciate that we have material and laid out models which guide us through communication. In order to communicate effectively we must first understand the theories, therefore I find Shannon and Weaver's work to be vital to the world of communication.

To view more information about Shannon and Weaver's theory Click Here

Information Theory is a great example of a Scientific theory. If you would like to view a theory of Humanistic origin Click Here

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This page was last updated by Kyle Croxton 3/15/00