The Role of Mediators in Informing Process

Abstract

Chapter four addresses problems caused by informing via mediators and introduces information mediators as another risky factor for misinforming. In the cascade, two-sided asymmetry by adding mediators' subjective assumptions in a multi-steps process from the original data source toward the end-user's problem solving, are elaborated in a way to high light the factors and circumstances associated with misinforming risks. The role of the human mediators – information brokers – is discussed in the context of misinforming hazards. The issue of technology mediated informing is also addressed by emphasizing different categories of nowadays technologies. This chapter also presents and explores different topologies of communication processes according to their potential to mislead receivers. Topologies are contrasted according to their cardinality and feed-back availability.