Beyond Uncertainty: Reasoning with Unknown Possibilities

Limited awareness is a topic of philosophical investigation that has recently been explored by economists and computer scientists. It is beyond the uncertainty that can be managed, but agents can learn to identify situations in which they are more and less likely to experience it.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 09 September 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Limited awareness, a fascinating topic within the realm of decision-making and uncertain reasoning, has garnered increasing attention from philosophers in recent years. While economists and computer scientists have long been intrigued by this concept, it has only recently been subjected to rigorous philosophical inquiry. At first glance, limited awareness appears to defy systematic treatment, as it surpasses the confines of uncertainty that can be managed. On the one hand, agents lack control over the contingencies they are and are not aware of at any given time, and any awareness growth is unexpected. On the other hand, agents seem to develop the ability to recognize situations that are more likely to result in limited awareness and subsequent awareness growth. This presents a challenging puzzle that we explore in this Element.

Limited awareness encompasses a range of phenomena, including the limitations of attention, the emergence of new information, and the subjective experience of time. It challenges our traditional understanding of consciousness and raises questions about the nature of awareness itself. One key aspect of limited awareness is the unpredictability of awareness growth. Agents cannot predict when or how their awareness will expand, and any increase in awareness is often surprising. This unpredictability adds an element of uncertainty to decision-making processes, as agents must constantly adapt to new information and changing circumstances.

Despite the challenges posed by limited awareness, agents can develop strategies to mitigate its effects. One approach is to focus on the situations in which limited awareness is more likely to occur. By identifying these situations, agents can allocate their attention and resources more effectively, reducing the likelihood of being overwhelmed by new information. For example, agents may choose to focus on tasks that require a high level of concentration or to avoid situations that involve multiple distractions.

Another strategy is to develop awareness-enhancing techniques. This can include mindfulness practices, meditation, and cognitive training exercises that help agents improve their ability to focus and retain information. By increasing their awareness, agents can better manage the flow of information and make more informed decisions.

Limited awareness also raises important ethical considerations. For example, if agents are not fully aware of the consequences of their decisions, they may be responsible for harm that they did not intend. This raises questions about the moral obligations of agents and the responsibility of decision-makers to ensure that agents are fully informed.

In conclusion, limited awareness is a complex and fascinating topic that has only recently been subject to philosophical investigation. It challenges our understanding of consciousness and raises important questions about the nature of awareness and decision-making. By developing strategies to mitigate the effects of limited awareness and by addressing ethical considerations, we can better understand the complexities of human cognition and improve our ability to make informed decisions.

Weight: 172g
ISBN-13: 9781108713511