Vidensamfundets forhistorie. En introduktion til nyere, international udforskning af tidligmoderne videnskulturer ca. 1500-1800

Abstract

The scope of this review essay on The pre-history of the Knowledge Society is to introduce
new explorations (writings, research projects and web resources) into early modern
cultures of knowledge c. 1500 to 1800. It focuses mainly on German and Anglo-American
scholarship from the last two decades. The dialogue between these traditions,
e.g. the material-orientated ‘information history’ and the often more anthropological
informed field of ‘Wissensgeschichte’, has been almost non-existent. Bringing the two
traditions together is a purpose in itself with this essay. A common focal point in the
exploration of early modern knowledge cultures, it is argued, is an emphasis partly on
the practices of knowledge management, whether practical or mental, and partly on
the hybridity of knowledge. Notable and exemplary books, articles and projects from
this broad field are divided into thematic headings: actors of knowledge, practices of
knowledge, places of knowledge and media. Finally, the burgeoning interest in early
modern practices and norms of scholarly production is suggested as representing both
a reorientation and a retro-orientation of Humanities in the digital age.