Information out of information: on the self‐referential dynamics of information growth

Purpose The paper seeks to develop a theory of information processes that invokes three major explanatory factors to account for the escalating patterns of information growth that have been taking place over the last decades. Design/methodology/approach Conceptual analysis and review of relevant theories. Findings First, information is claimed to have a dual value as a description of a reference domain and a relationship that such a description may have or develop with already available descriptions within that domain or across reference domains. Second, the intrinsic combinability of technologically mediated information is substantially strengthened by the interoperable character of contemporary information infrastructures. Finally, information growth dynamics are intimately connected with the perishable and disposable character of information. Originality/value The paper presents a novel theory of information growth dynamics.