Libraly Journal

Libraly Journal ›› 2023, Vol. 42 ›› Issue (382): 98-105.

Previous Articles     Next Articles

Controversy and Thinking on Digital Humanities Research

Yu Yingxiang1,2 (1 School of Cultural Heritage and Information Management, Shanghai University;2 Research Center for Electronic Records Management, Renmin University of China)   

  • Online:2023-02-15 Published:2023-03-02
  • About author:Yu Yingxiang1,2 (1 School of Cultural Heritage and Information Management, Shanghai University;2 Research Center for Electronic Records Management, Renmin University of China)

Abstract:

Digital humanities has been a research hotspot in the field of humanities, social sciences andinformation management in recent years. The academic circles have not yet unified their understanding.Criticism and reflection have always been there, whereas controversy and disagreement continue inthe digital humanities research. This paper attempts to sort out these disputes from the perspective ofcomparing digital humanities with its potential interlocutors from the four levels of digital humanities’concepts, research subjects, research paradigms, and technical tools in order to build consensus in thediscussion. It interprets the concept controversy from the dilemma of the definition of digital humanitiesas umbrella; explores the evolution of digital humanities research subjects from the perspective of roleconflict and role reconstruction; analyzes the alienation of digital humanities research paradigm from theopposition of scientific research and humanistic spirit; reflects on the tool paradox of digital technologyapplication from the perspective of labeling and algorithmic risks in digital humanities research.

Key words: Digital humanities, Digital technology, Role conflict, Humanistic spirit