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Photo: Dejan Križaj

In the previous post on the importance of unknown unknowns, we highlighted the importance of recognizing and addressing gaps in our knowledge. Building on this, we look at the role of educational institutions, particularly universities, in promoting a deeper understanding of these gaps.

As Renata Salecl discusses in her article Ikeaization of Society, universities should not only be seen as knowledge factories, but also as public spaces of ignorance. This perspective allows us to accept our limitations and use them as a basis for discovery. By accepting that we do not know what we do not know, we create an environment that is conducive to exploring the unknown.

Universities as spaces of ignorance

Proponents of integrating courses that emphasize critical thinking oppose the illusion that universities are comprehensive providers of knowledge. Instead, they suggest viewing them as places where ignorance is not only recognized but celebrated. This approach encourages a mindset in which the pursuit of knowledge is an ongoing process and in which questions and curiosity drive learning.

Renata Salecl's work is in line with the thinking of other scientists such as Nassim Nicholas Taleb, who in his book "The Black Swan" emphasizes the impact of rare and unpredictable events — unknown unknowns — on our lives. Taleb argues for a skeptical and curious approach to knowledge, similar to that proposed by Salecl. In addition, Stuart Firestein's book "Ignorance: How It Drives Science" discusses how ignorance and the pursuit of questions rather than answers drive scientific discovery.

The value of admitting ignorance

Admitting our ignorance is important for several reasons. Recognizing our limitations opens the door to new investigations and research opportunities. It fosters an environment where critical thinking and skepticism are valued over passive acceptance of information. It also encourages humility and reduces the risk of hubris and the Dunning-Kruger effect. By understanding and admitting what we don’t know, we create opportunities for deeper learning and innovation that allow us to approach problems with a fresh perspective and a willingness to explore uncharted territories.

Dealing with ignorance

To deal with ignorance, we need to cultivate curiosity and foster a culture where asking questions and seeking new knowledge becomes the norm. Developing curricula that prioritize critical analysis and problem solving over memorization can help foster critical thinking. In addition, encouraging interdisciplinary studies allows for different perspectives and uncovers hidden unknowns. Creating an environment where students can express their uncertainty without fear encourages open discussion and debate and makes it easier to identify and close gaps in knowledge. By implementing these strategies, we can better prepare ourselves to navigate the complexity of the unknown with confidence and resilience.

The realization that universities are spaces of ignorance rather than factories of knowledge can change our approach to education. The emphasis shifts from the mere acquisition of information to the promotion of a mindset of lifelong learning and discovery. By acknowledging and accepting our ignorance, we prepare ourselves to tackle the complexity of the unknown with curiosity, humility and resilience.

Stay connected with Knowledge Angels to further explore how embracing ignorance can lead to profound learning and innovation.

Photo: Dejan Križaj

In today's rapidly evolving world, the convergence of different scientific fields often leads to the most innovative and impactful discoveries and innovations. By fostering connections between different disciplines, we can tackle complex challenges more effectively and drive progress in unprecedented ways. Here we highlight several areas of science that are close to our hearts and emphasize the importance of connecting them.

TLDR: Knowledge Angels Depository · Scientific Curiosities 

Arts and humanities

The arts and humanities encompass a wide range of disciplines concerned with human culture, history and creativity. From architecture and history to literature and music, these fields offer rich insights into the human experience. By integrating these perspectives with other scientific fields, we can improve our understanding of societal dynamics and cultural development.

Social sciences

The social sciences study human behavior and social structures and focus on areas such as economics, psychology, sociology and political science. These disciplines provide important insights into how societies function and develop. Combining social sciences with technology and life sciences can lead to innovative solutions to societal challenges, from economic development to mental health.

Science and technology

Life sciences and biomedicine

Life sciences and biomedicine are central to improving healthcare and understanding biological processes. Areas such as biology, medicine, agriculture and genetics are at the forefront of improving human health and environmental sustainability. The integration of biosciences with technology and social sciences can lead to advances in personalized medicine, sustainable agriculture and public health policy.

Physical sciences

The physical sciences, including astronomy, chemistry, physics and earth sciences, seek to explain the fundamental laws of nature. These disciplines form the basis for technological innovation and our understanding of the universe. By linking the physical sciences with engineering and technology, we can develop breakthrough solutions in areas such as renewable energy and space exploration.

Technology

Technology encompasses areas such as engineering, robotics, computing and telecommunications. Technological advances are driving progress in all areas of science and society. The integration of technology with life sciences and social sciences can lead to breakthrough developments in artificial intelligence, smart cities and cyber security.

Interdisciplinary studies

Interdisciplinary studies, such as cognitive science, environmental studies, data science and sustainable development, represent the confluence of several scientific disciplines. These fields deal with complex, multi-layered problems that require a holistic approach. By fostering interdisciplinary research, we can address global challenges such as climate change, resource management and societal resilience.

Transdisciplinary studies

Transdisciplinary studies go beyond the integration of different disciplines by involving non-academic stakeholders such as industry experts, policy makers and community members in the research process. This approach aims to solve real-world problems through collaborative and participatory efforts and to create practical solutions that are socially relevant and widely accepted.

The power of interconnectedness

The true potential of scientific research lies in the interconnectedness of different disciplines. By breaking down silos and fostering collaboration between different fields, we can drive innovation and create solutions that are greater than the sum of their parts. This holistic approach not only serves to increase knowledge, but also to provide comprehensive solutions to real-world problems.

We believe that combining different scientific disciplines is essential to tackle the complex challenges of our time. We invite you to join the discusion and share your thoughts with us. Have we overlooked any key areas? How can we further strengthen the links between these areas? Your insights and feedback will be invaluable in shaping a more integrated and collaborative scientific community.

Photo: Dejan Križaj

Studies continue to show the remarkable ways in which humans have adapted to life in some of the most extreme habitats on Earth. From the icy expanses of the Arctic to the hydrothermal vents of the deep sea, our species has pushed the boundaries of survival and innovation.

Life in the Arctic

Known for its freezing temperatures and harsh conditions, the Arctic is home to indigenous communities that have developed unique adaptations to survive. However, the region is undergoing rapid changes due to climate change, resulting in more frequent winter heat waves and rain storms. These changes are turning the landscape into what scientists call an “ice prison,” making it increasingly difficult for both humans and wildlife to find food and maintain their habitats. Despite these challenges, humans have always adapted to the harsh conditions of the Arctic. The ability to hunt and gather in this environment has been aided by innovations in clothing, shelter and hunting techniques, allowing communities to thrive where many species struggle.

Hydrothermal vents: life in the deep sea

In the depths of the ocean, hydrothermal vents represent another extreme habitat where life thrives without sunlight. These vents release mineral-rich water heated by magma beneath the Earth’s crust, creating an environment where chemosynthetic rather than photosynthetic organisms form the basis of the food chain. This unique ecosystem supports a variety of life forms, from microorganisms to larger organisms such as tubeworms and giant clams. The discovery of these ecosystems has also influenced our understanding of possible life on other planets. Scientists are studying hydrothermal vents to understand how life could exist on icy moons such as Europa and Enceladus, where similar conditions could exist beneath their frozen surfaces.

Historical human adaptations

A comprehensive study examining the adaptation of early human species to different habitats has shown how our ancestors spread across different landscapes in Africa and Eurasia. This study found that significant climate changes, particularly during the early to middle Pleistocene, influenced the distribution of vegetation and the evolutionary development of several Homo species. These early humans adapted to both open and closed environments, moving from tropical forests to grasslands and eventually to colder regions as the climate cooled. By understanding how early humans adapted to these changes, we can appreciate the resilience and ingenuity that allowed our species to survive in a variety of extreme environments. This historical perspective is crucial as we face major challenges today in extreme habitats due to climate change and environmental degradation.

Stay up to date with Knowledge Angels and learn more about how humans and other life forms are adapting to some of the most challenging environments and situations on Earth and beyond.

Photo: Dejan Krizaj

The sentence “We don’t know what we don’t know” sums up a major challenge for understanding and dealing with our knowledge gaps. It emphasizes that in addition to the recognized knowledge gaps (known unknowns), there are also areas that completely elude our awareness — unknown unknowns. This concept is particularly relevant in areas that require critical decision making and risk management, where unforeseen variables can significantly affect outcomes.

Unknown unknowns are crucial in various fields, such as science, business and personal development. In medicine, for example, unknown unknowns can affect the accuracy of diagnosis and the effectiveness of treatment, highlighting the need for continued research and open-mindedness. The Dunning-Kruger effect, a cognitive bias in which individuals of low ability overestimate their competence at a task, illustrates how not knowing our own ignorance can lead to overconfidence and flawed decision-making. Recognizing these blind spots is important to avoid overconfidence and encourage more accurate self-assessment.

Dealing with unknown unknowns requires proactive strategies. Fostering a culture of continuous learning and critical thinking can help mitigate the risks associated with these gaps. Developing metacognitive skills — essentially reflecting on one’s own thinking— allows individuals to better assess their knowledge and identify areas for improvement. Organizations can use scenario planning and risk management techniques to prepare for unexpected challenges and ensure they remain agile and resilient in the face of uncertainty.

Understanding and engaging with unknown unknowns is essential for effective decision making and problem solving. Curiosity, humility and a willingness to engage in lifelong learning can help individuals and organizations navigate the complexity of the unknown. As we continue to explore and expand our knowledge, it’s important to be aware of our limitations and strive to uncover and understand the unknowns that shape our world. To gain deeper insights, scientific articles such as those from the Journal of Experimental Botany and bioRxiv provide detailed explorations of how unknown unknowns drive scientific inquiry and discovery. Engaging with these resources can help develop strategies for dealing with uncertainty and foster innovation.

Stay up to date with Knowledge Angels and learn more about known and unknown unknowns!

Photo/Video: Astribot

The field of humanoid robotics has made remarkable progress in the first half of 2024, with innovations that promise to transform both industry and daily life. Here is an overview of the latest developments from three key sources.

Astribot S1: A fast humanoid marvel

The Astribot S1, as reported by New Atlas, represents a significant leap forward in humanoid robotics. Designed for speed and agility, the Astribot S1 can perform fast, precise movements, making it ideal for tasks that require both dexterity and quick reflexes. This robot is a technological marvel and a practical tool for various applications, from industrial tasks to potential customer service and customer care tasks.

The role of AI in the further development of robotics

Nature article looks at how AI is revolutionizing robotics. The integration of AI, particularly through advanced models such as NVIDIA’s GR00T project, is improving the capabilities of humanoid robots. These AI models enable robots to learn from extensive data sets and simulations, improving their ability to perform complex tasks and interact seamlessly with their environment. This synergy between AI and robotics paves the way for more intuitive and adaptable robots that can assist in various scenarios, from housework to industrial activities.

Industry trends and investments

According to a quarterly report from StartUs Insights, the humanoid robotics industry is experiencing a surge in investment and innovation. Large technology companies such as Microsoft and Tesla are investing heavily in the development of advanced humanoid robots. These robots are being used in various sectors such as automotive and aerospace, highlighting a significant shift in the industry towards automation and efficiency. The report also highlights the ethical and employment challenges arising from these advances and emphasizes the need for a balanced development that takes into account both technological progress and the impact on society.

The future of humanoid robotics

The convergence of AI and robotics is ushering in a new era of humanoid robots that are faster, smarter and more versatile than ever before. As these technologies continue to develop, robots will play an increasingly important role in our everyday lives and in industry. The key will be to overcome the associated challenges and opportunities to ensure a future where humans and robots (and AI) can coexist and collaborate effectively.

Stay tuned to Knowledge Angels to learn more about how humanoid robotics is reshaping our world.

Photo/Video: Vox

A Vox video  “It’s not you. Bad doors are everywhere” highlights the widespread problem of poorly designed doors, known as “Norman doors,” that confuse users about whether to push or pull. This concept is closely related to the principles discussed in Don Norman’s influential book “The Design of Everyday Things”. Norman emphasizes the importance of intuitive design that clearly communicates its use to users, reducing errors and frustration.

Two basic principles of good design are presented in the video: Discoverability and feedback. Discoverability ensures that users can easily determine what actions are possible by simply looking at the object. Feedback gives clear indications of what action has been performed and what the result was. These principles are essential for creating intuitive, user-friendly designs that prevent confusion and improve functionality.

Norman’s philosophy extends beyond doors to all aspects of product design. He advocates a design that emphasizes ease of use. When we consider these principles, we can better appreciate the impact of design on our lives and the importance of creating user-friendly environments – from our homes to outer space and everything in between. For anyone interested in design, Norman’s book is a must-read, offering valuable insights into how thoughtful design can improve usability and user satisfaction.

Stay up to date with Knowledge Angels and learn more about design principles and their practical applications in everyday life and extreme environments.

Photo: Dejan Krizaj

Despite significant technological advances, the construction industry remains largely manual and slow to adopt new digital tools. According to a BBC article by Emma Woollacott, today’s construction methods are not much different from those used a century ago. Factors such as the complexity of the industry, high costs, regulatory concerns and cultural resistance to change are hindering the widespread adoption of new technologies such as 3D printing and modular construction.

Similarly, an article by Smart Construction highlights that the industry’s fragmentation, reliance on manual processes and high implementation costs contribute to its digital lag. Despite these challenges, however, there are signs of progress. Companies are beginning to embrace digital tools for site identification, AI for predictive analytics and digital planning processes. Modular construction and 3D printing are also promising, but are reaching their limits in practice.

For the construction industry to truly transform, concerted action is needed to overcome these obstacles. Digital transformation is crucial to increase efficiency, reduce costs and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape. Advancing technologies offer new opportunities to streamline processes, improve quality control and reduce environmental impact.

Stay up to date with Knowledge Angels to learn more about how technology is gradually reshaping construction and other industries.

Photo: 總統府 – Flickr

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang recently shared an exciting vision for the future of gaming at Computex 2024. He highlighted how AI is already improving gaming through features such as DLSS, which increases refresh rate and resolution.

But the real game-changer is the potential for AI to create lifelike companions and NPCs. These AI buddies will provide a more immersive gaming experience, making virtual worlds more alive and interactive. This leap in AI technology promises to revolutionize the gaming industry and usher in a new era of dynamic, responsive gameplay.

Stay up to date with Knowledge Angels and learn more about how AI is reshaping advanced industries.

Photo/video: Fraser Cain

As humanity strives to return to the moon, robots are becoming key players in paving the way for human missions. According to a recent Fraser Cain podcast episode hosting Professor Yang Gao from King’s College London these robotic assistants will take on various tasks, from building habitats to conducting scientific research to make the lunar environment safer and more accessible for astronauts.

Robotic technologies, including autonomous rovers and construction robots, will prepare landing sites, build the necessary infrastructure, and even help build habitats. These advances are crucial for a permanent human presence on the moon and for future space missions.

Stay up to date with Knowledge Angels for more updates on how cutting-edge robotics are shaping the future of space exploration.