Development of Information Ethics in Library and Information Science in Taiwan

We are facing a growing concern on the social and ethical issues that comes from the increasing reliance on the information technology in information era. Findings of past research point out that Information Ethics is an important issue, and should become a mandatory course for Library and Information Science education. However, the field of Library and Information Science is still developing to value the concept of information ethics and surrounding issues. This article introduces the origin and definitions of information ethics, and analyzes its development in education and research in the field of Library and Information Science in Taiwan over the sixteen years from 1994-2010. We hope to arrive at a further understanding on the issues of “information ethics” and to establish conformity of using the term “information ethics”. In addition, we also hope that the results of the study will serve as a reference for educators and researchers in promoting information ethics. Finally, we propose suggestions for the planning of teaching and curriculum direction. [Article content in Chinese]