Evaluation of the semantic spectrum for information organization instruments

Abstract

The term “semantics” has been used over the past years in several areas of research and, more specifically, in those related to information technology. One reason for that appropriation is the Semantic Web vision, which originated from the expansion of the web and the inherent limitations of the syntax-based search engines. However, it is reasonable to demand an explanation about which is the semantics addressed in the Semantic Web since the study of the subject is complex and controversial. The present article aims to make a contribution towards this sense, analyzing what semantic is, discussing it within the scope of information technology and proposing explanatory alternatives. We intend to critically evaluate a spectrum that suggests a classification of instruments (models, languages, taxonomic structures, etc) in a semantic-based scale of graduated rates. We hope to provide a better understanding about the use of the term in different contexts, as well as offer a new spectrum from the considerations of the present article.