My Definition of the Information Renaissance
The Information Renaissance is not a concept that has been concretely defined by Merriam-Webster or an established event in history such as the European Renaissance. In my opinion, it has a somewhat fluid definition, similar to that of Web 2.0
Without actually searching, or doing any reading (or googling) of the topic, I would assume that the Information Renaissance is somewhat related to that of the European Renaissance. The Information Renaissance presenting a complete change of what we've seeen in the past and taking us into a new generation of collaboration (probably mostly online). I say mostly online because we've had books and magazines and newspapers all as modes of conveyance for information, but the internet, becoming popular only about 15 years ago is offering a new and easy-to-use medium for people interested in it.
As the internet increases in popularity, its been easier to access for people now and learn how to use. I have a grandmother, having never even turned a computer on before, who pays her bills online now and sends emails out weekly.
The original Renaissance was fueled by innovation. Innovation in art, science, mathematics, architecture and other areas. Now we're seeing innovations in information technology and the way that it's available to users and the way that users are able to employ whats now available.
I did another entry on the FordSync technology (www.syncmyride.com). 10 years ago, I do not believe that people would have foreseen themselves syncing their cellular phone with their car and using their voice to make phone calls. I think its the innovation that fuels the Renaissance, whether it be in the 14th century on the 21rst.