Contributions of the sociocultural dimension of Knowledge Organization to equitable and socially just subject headings and thesaurus
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5433/1981-8920.2023v28n2p298Keywords:
Knowledge organization systems, Subject Headings Lists, Thesaurus, Equity, Social JusticeAbstract
Objective: This study explores research focused on the sociocultural dimension of Knowledge Organization, aiming to identify and detail studies that contribute to making knowledge organization systems more equitable and socially just, with an emphasis on subject heading lists and thesaurus.
Methodology: This applied research adopts a qualitative approach, using scoping review as a methodological procedure.
Results: Criticisms are raised in relation to the structure and terminology of traditional systems, which reflect a historical bias towards a male, Euro-American, heterosexual, white, and Christian perspective. Recommendations propose collaboration with communities to promote fair and equitable representation, as well as the incorporation of terms used by people to refer to themselves, terms representative of local culture and minority social groups, and the use of user-friendly and democratic language, suggesting the implementation of these changes at the local level.
Conclusions: We support the incorporation of institutionalized mechanisms for requesting and monitoring the revision of subject headings lists and thesaurus, aiming to increase transparency and accountability of institutions in the promotion of equity and social justice in knowledge organization systems.
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References
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