The rhizome and the tree: changing metaphors for information organisation

Abstract

Purpose

The paper aims to review Deleuze and Guttari's concept of the rhizome as a model for information organisation.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a critical review of selected literature.

Findings

The rhizome concept is a promising model for understanding hyperlinked information services. It may be of practical value, particularly if it can be integrated with more traditional forms of information organisation. More research, conceptual and practical, is needed before this can be achieved.

Research limitations/implications

The literature review is not comprehensive, and the conclusions are open‐ended.

Originality/value

This is the only paper to review the rhizome concept in this way.

Citation

Robinson, L. and Maguire, M. (2010), "The rhizome and the tree: changing metaphors for information organisation", Journal of Documentation, Vol. 66 No. 4, pp. 604-613. https://doi.org/10.1108/00220411011052975