Information vs. Knowledge: What's the Difference?
Edited by Janet White || By Harlon Moss || Updated on October 20, 2023
Information is data presented in a comprehensible form; knowledge is the understanding derived from that information.
Key Differences
Information refers to data or facts that have been organized and presented in a way that is understandable. It's what we gather from various sources – books, the internet, or direct observations. Knowledge, on the other hand, goes a step further. It's about understanding, interpreting, and internalizing that information.
In another perspective, information can be seen as the raw material. It's plentiful, easily accessible, and can be shared without much effort. Knowledge, in contrast, is the refined product; it's personal, built over time, and is shaped by individual experiences and cognitive processes.
From a functional standpoint, information can be held in a computer database, written down in a book, or displayed on a screen. It remains static unless changed or updated. Knowledge, however, resides within an individual or a community. It can be tacit or explicit, and it evolves as one learns and grows.
To put it simply, information might tell you that it's going to rain tomorrow, based on meteorological data. Knowledge is understanding how that rain might affect your plans, or knowing from experience how to prepare for it.
Comparison Chart
Nature
Raw data or facts
Processed information, understanding
ADVERTISEMENT
Dependency
Can exist independently
Depends on information for its formation
Tangibility
Can be stored or written down
Intangible, resides within an individual
Transferability
Easily transferred or shared
Requires experience or learning to transfer
Evolution
Static unless changed
Evolves with experience and understanding
Information and Knowledge Definitions
Information
Data processed or arranged in a meaningful way.
The graph gave us valuable information about the sales trend.
ADVERTISEMENT
Knowledge
Awareness or familiarity gained by experience of a fact or situation.
He came to the city with little knowledge of its history.
Information
A message received or sent.
I received information that the meeting has been postponed.
Knowledge
The state of being aware or informed about something.
To my knowledge, he has never visited that city.
Information
The communication or reception of facts or data.
He has the necessary information to complete the project.
Knowledge
Facts, information, and skills acquired through experience or education.
She has a vast knowledge of classical music.
Information
News or facts provided or learned about something.
Did you get any information about the new policy?
Knowledge
The sum of what is known.
The library is a repository of human knowledge.
Information
Knowledge obtained from investigation, study, or instruction.
She gathered a lot of information during her research.
Knowledge
The theoretical understanding of a subject.
His deep knowledge of physics is commendable.
Information
Knowledge or facts learned, especially about a certain subject or event.
Knowledge
The state or fact of knowing
Humans naturally aspire to knowledge.
Knowledge
Familiarity, awareness, or understanding gained through experience or study
Has great knowledge of these parts.
Has only limited knowledge of chemistry.
FAQs
What is the basic definition of information?
Information is data processed or arranged in a meaningful way.
Can knowledge exist without information?
No, knowledge typically builds upon and is derived from information.
Can information be stored in digital formats?
Yes, information can be stored in databases, files, or other digital mediums.
Is knowledge always based on factual information?
Not always; knowledge can be based on beliefs, perceptions, or interpretations.
Is all information useful?
No, the usefulness of information depends on its relevance and accuracy.
How is knowledge typically acquired?
Through experience, education, reflection, and interpretation of information.
Is knowledge more valuable than information?
While both are essential, knowledge, being the deeper understanding of information, is often considered more valuable.
What is the relationship between information and knowledge?
Information is the base, and knowledge is the understanding or interpretation of that information.
What is a common source of information?
Books, internet, media, and direct observations are common sources.
How is information typically presented?
Through texts, graphs, visuals, audio, or any other communicative medium.
How is knowledge different from belief?
Knowledge is based on evidence and understanding, while belief may not always have a factual basis.
Can information be subjective?
While information should be based on facts, the presentation or interpretation of it can be subjective.
What is the role of experience in shaping knowledge?
Experience provides context, depth, and personal interpretation to information, leading to knowledge.
How do experts differentiate between relevant and irrelevant information?
Through critical thinking, understanding of context, and validation of sources.
Is knowledge static or dynamic?
Dynamic, as it evolves with new experiences and understandings.
Can information change over time?
Yes, as new data emerges or situations evolve, information can change.
Why is it important to validate information?
Validating information ensures its accuracy, which is essential for gaining correct knowledge.
Is all knowledge derived from information?
Mostly, but knowledge can also come from intuition, beliefs, or innate understanding.
Can one person's knowledge be identical to another's?
Not completely, as knowledge is shaped by individual experiences and interpretations.
Can knowledge be taught?
While information can be taught, knowledge often requires personal experience or reflection to be fully understood.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
