Defining Domain-Independent Discovery Informatics

TL;DR

This paper reflects on the early history and definition of domain-independent discovery informatics, emphasizing its enduring relevance in scientific research and practice across various sources and paradigms.

Contribution

It provides a historical account and analysis of discovery informatics, highlighting its foundational role and persistent appeal in scientific discovery.

Findings

Discovery informatics has a longstanding legacy in scientific research.

It remains a highly relevant descriptor for research activities.

The paper traces DI across literature and paradigms.

Abstract

This paper presents a personal account of the early legacy of discovery informatics, especially surrounding the first published definition of domain-independent DI. The state of DI is traced across various reference sources and the literature on the fourth paradigm of the scientific method. Observations are offered on DI, concluding that it will retain its appeal as a highly apt descriptor for research and practice activities that are inherent in our human nature.