The Role of the Unknown and Unknowability in Digital First Futures

Abstract

Digital systems, grounded in established data, algorithms, and predefined parameters, are frequently characterized by their effectiveness, efficiency, and precision in computational processes. Consequently, the shift towards a digital-first paradigm is rapidly gaining momentum. This paper highlights the unknowabilities emerging from the interplay between digital technologies and human agents. By introducing the concept of symbiotic unknowability through an imaginary narrative featuring a future Digital Oracle, it critiques the current digitalization trajectory reliant on known data. The paper argues for acknowledging the limitations of digital systems to deal with the unknown and complex realities. It emphasizes the necessity of balancing reliance on data and human judgment by highlighting the interaction between human capabilities and digital algorithms introducing unique unknowabilities, that neither can foresee independently. This highlights the importance of recognizing and addressing these emergent unknowns in the evolving digital landscape