The Art of Mapping the Unknown for Accelerated Learning and Progress

We often define knowledge as an understanding or awareness of facts and information that we are already aware of or we know. However, I propose a shift in this perception. In my view, knowledge should represent our understanding or awareness of the things we do not know.

Why so? In this digital age, we are surrounded by a vast sea of information, easily and quickly accessible. Despite this, truly mastering a field – understanding its depths, limitations and unanswered questions – requires time and expertise. Hence, real knowledge should encompass our awareness of the unanswered questions, the unknown territories within our field of interest.

In the scientific community, this approach should be prevalent. The primary goal should be to identify, comprehend, and measure unanswered questions. But why the emphasis on measurement? Simply because progress is impossible without it. By understanding and defining the boundaries of the unknown (measuring the unknown), we take our first step towards knowledge. This process of understanding and measuring the unknown, I call “Ignometry”.

In our educational system, I firmly believe that teachers should familiarize students with the knowns as well as the unknowns. Wouldn’t it be exciting and motivating for a student to hear a teacher say, “Here are the things we don’t yet know in this area” or “These questions remain unanswered”?

Similarly, in the research community, there should be a more defined path towards mapping the unknowns. I often find myself pondering on the open questions in our field, the problems for which we still don’t have clear answers. What do we know about these problems? Which ones can we solve with our current knowledge? I am of the opinion that everyone should dedicate a part of their time to “Ignometry” and then inspire others to do the same. This practice could significantly accelerate our progress in science. I personally devote an afternoon each week to “Ignometry”, exploring and trying to understand the boundaries of the unknown.