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The limits to language in doing systems design

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  • Richard J. Boland
  • Kalle Lyytinen

Abstract

We employ a conversational genre of performative research in order to explore foundational issues of language and design in information system practice. Initially, Sir Geoffrey Vickers (†2004), C. West Churchman (†1999), Hans-Georg Gadamer (†1982) and Jurgen Habermas are portrayed as engaging in a roundtable discussion on the topic: “Are there Limits to Language in Doing System Design?” We employ an updated, AI-enhanced version of Memex, an intelligent agent originally described by Vannevar Bush at the end of WWII, to serve as a plausible digital platform for enabling a discussion among intelligent agents, both living and dead. The Memex system conducts a spirited conversation among the four scholars and later brings Pierre Bourdieu (†2002) and Bruno Latour into the discussion in order to enrich the unfolding conversation. After the roundtable, Jurgen Habermas and Sir Geoffrey Vickers synthesize the learning from their perspectives.

Suggested Citation

  • Richard J. Boland & Kalle Lyytinen, 2017. "The limits to language in doing systems design," European Journal of Information Systems, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 26(3), pages 248-259, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:tjisxx:v:26:y:2017:i:3:p:248-259
    DOI: 10.1057/s41303-017-0043-4
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