"Nationwide, and indeed worldwide, there has been a growing awareness of the importance of access to information. Accordingly, information technology (IT), broadly defined and its role beyond the internal workings of businesses has leapt into the social consciousness. Diving into the Bitstream distinguishes itself by weaving together the concepts and conditions of IT. What distinguishes these trends is their focus on the impacts of IT on societies, and the responsibilities of IT's creators and users. The author pulls together important, often complex issues in the relationships among information, information technologies, and societal constructs. The text explores a synopsis of these issues that are foundations for further consideration. "-- Provided by publisher.