Changing Maps: Governing in a World of Rapid Change

Jeffrey Moon is head of the Documents Reference/Data Centre at Queen’s
University.

Changing Maps presents the second report of the Roundtable Project on
Governing in an Information Society, as well as selected papers
presented to the Roundtable. The first report (1992) explored the shared
framework of goals, interpretations, and values that are needed in our
information society. The second report continues this work, proposing
scenarios for reshaping the governance of Canada and for facing the
resulting challenges. Some Roundtable participants view, the development
and use of “shared mental maps” (the process underlying these
discussions) proved almost as valuable as the end results.

The book presents a compelling argument for ongoing public learning as
a prerequisite to building a cohesive society in an information age.
Complementing the Roundtable Report are a series of papers dealing with
scenario thinking, the information economy, and postmodernism. Of
particular interest is a critique of the “information society”
concept—Daniel Yankelovich’s somewhat sobering riposte to the
enthusiasm conveyed in the main report.

Bringing together insights from key players and thinkers in the
information society, Changing Maps is recommended reading for managers,
policymakers, and students of societal change.