Knowledge Generation and Future Thinking

As institutions of higher learning, the world has consulted, taken counsel and entrusted the voices emerging from within, for thousands of years. I am not sure whether it was because of the knowledge generated from within or because of the futurist thinking inclinations of such institutions of higher learning. Or a blend of both.

What I do sense is the emergence of a plethora of academic voices saying same, regurgitating what the “master’s” voice has declared to be truth and clearly not attempting to rock the boat. Regenerative, in its intent, but without substance or clear direction to follow suite.

We are, however, living in a dynamic environment (not necessarily because of co-creative instincts and such related powers).  This necessitates a proactive and informed approach to understanding how knowledge is created and how individuals and organisations can anticipate and prepare for future possibilities – a la Bruno and his views on the world being a heliocentric reality.

The ability to generate new knowledge and to think strategically about the future is becoming increasingly critical for navigating this landscape where more individuals are intentionally being drawn into becoming part of a network of knowledge workers who knows what knowledge is.  They may, however, not have similar influence on thinking about the unknown possibilities of the future.

So, is knowledge generation still about creating new understanding or have we farmed this opportunity out to current day LLMs, who through AI models are able to analyse large amounts of data to find patterns and develop new insights – systems acting as skilled librarians, efficiently surfacing precise and relevant information needed by users from vast libraries of data.

We are told that by automating the analysis of extensive information across diverse topics and domains, AI models learn to make connections between concepts and facts, ultimately transforming raw data into synthesised content such as summaries, explanations, and conversational responses – can you spot Gemini in this description?

Over thousands of years, humans have also processed research results, experiments, and collaborations, turning experiences into formal knowledge.

A human-centric perspective emphasises that individuals too, can generate knowledge through observation, research, and experimentation, leading to a better understanding of themselves and their environment. This process involves gaining hands-on skills and informal knowledge through collaboration, communication, and observation.

Knowledge generation, therefore, can be viewed as a public good, continuously improvable and essential for addressing complex problems, contributing to the world’s ability to manage, maintain, and create knowledge, thereby providing a competitive advantage.

Across these diverse perspectives, a common thread seems to emerge, knowledge generation involves the transformation of raw data or an existing understanding, into new, valuable insights.

Whether through the computational power of AI, the experiential learning of humans, or the systematic inquiry of academic research, the fundamental aim is to expand the boundaries of what is known and understood.

So where does this leave future thinking?

Future thinking as a multi-faceted and creative process, assumes the exploration of potential future scenarios rather than attempting to predict a single, predetermined outcome.  It embraces divergent thinking, seeking multiple possible answers and acknowledging the inherent uncertainty of the future. This mindset contrasts with analytical thinking, which employs convergent thinking to find the right answer and reduce uncertainty.

Future thinking also operates within the understanding that there are a range of possible futures, and that the future can be actively shaped by the decisions and actions taken in the present.

Knowledge generation and future thinking therefore represents two fundamental constructs that are essential for navigating the complexities of our dynamic world.

Knowledge generation encompasses the processes through which new understanding and insights are created, whether through human intellect, artificial intelligence, or systematic inquiry.

Future thinking involves a creative and exploratory approach to anticipating and preparing for a range of potential futures. While distinct in their focus, these two concepts are deeply interconnected.

In my view, cultivating both robust knowledge generation capabilities and strategic future thinking skills, is crucial for individuals and organisations seeking to thrive in an environment characterised by the emergence of an ever-increasing number of enlightened knowledge workers. Individuals who desire intentionally and pro-actively, to shape an informed and resilient future.