What is the theme in The Mote in God's Eye by Larry Niven?

The resounding theme of the difference between information as isolated facts versus established within a meaningful context is highlighted repeatedly in the book. The relative value and meaning of data is expressed through situations large and small, individuals and groups. Humans and aliens alike find themselves mislead by bits of data. Unable to be completely apart from one's culture and perspective, true objectivity is difficult to achieve. The results of this basic conflict in communication and conceptualization carry a variety of consequence while playing out in a variety of ways in the story.