As the Web passes through its first decade of widespread use, we still
know surprisingly little about these complex technical and social mechanisms.
We have only scratched the surface of what could be realized with deeper
scientific investigation into its design, operation and impact on society.
Robust technical design, innovative business decisions, and sound public
policy judgment all require that we are aware of the complex interactions
between technology and society. We call this awareness Web Science: the
science and engineering of this massive system for the common good.[10] In order to galvanize Web Science research and education
efforts, MIT and the University of Southampton in the United Kingdom have
created the Web Science Research
Initiative.
