Introduction

Abstract

This chapter introduces the unique approach taken in this book, namely, integrating five perspectives on Web search and search engines that are usually dealt with separately. These five perspectives are the technical perspective, the user perspective, the Internet-based research perspective, the economic perspective, and the societal perspective. This chapter also introduces the critical role that Google plays in the search engine market and how this book will focus on Google as the most important search engine and look into what other players on the market can offer in terms of alternatives.