Why The Name “The Information Artichoke”?

The “artichoke” part of the name is homage to an old joke, a good one IMHO.

A person is invited to attend a banquet at the White House, becomes very anxious at the thought of having to shake hands with the President and say a few words, and prepares and memorizes a set piece. Unfortunately, it comes out wrong on the night.

“Oh Mr. President, isn’t the White House a magnificent building. Can you tell me the name of the artichoke who designed it?”