Information as a promoter of autonomy and social integration

Abstract

The theoretical and methodological assumptions of Information Science can contribute to the investigation of how the strategic use of mediated information can help reduce inequality through the application of the principles of social protagonism. This reflection guided a PhD sandwich research that resulted in the present article and focused on the development of a possible social integration model based on the experience gained in an Italian community called Rione Sanità. The actions undertaken in this community, described in the model proposed, were aimed at providing Sanità's residents with concrete, true, and legitimate appropriation of information, achievement of autonomy, and cultural and social empowerment. The qualitative research approach was used in the field research. Data were collected through interviews and participant observation, and were analyzed using content analysis as proposed by Bardin, establishing categories. It was concluded that social ties and group identity need to be rethought considering that only by respecting the differences, one can understand the subject as unique, but also as someone who needs others and everything surrounding him/her and union in order to fight against degradation. The only possible dimension is continuous experimentation; however, this requires constant monitoring of the existing conditions and processes focusing on the weaknesses, promoting information actions for and within the individuals studied.

Keywords:
Empowerment; Social integration model; Mediation of information; Social protagonism.