"Traditional query based analysis involves posing specific questions
to the data. The trouble is, the answers are limited by the assumptions
the questions are based on... So patterns which are counter intuitive
or that relate to questions no one thought to ask remain hidden." Artificial neural networks, machine learning and natural language
research refine the question and answer procedure. Intriguing parallels with one of the seminal theological texts of
the western tradition, the
Dialogus, by William of Ockham, written in the early 15th century
in the form of a dialogue between master and student. Here the student
puts questions to the master, who retains a neutral voice, giving different
possible examples in answer to the questions without providing an opinion
or judgment. The Dialogus is concerned with heresy, how it can be identified
and by whom, and what should be done about it. It draws a distinction
between canonical and theological "science" (the Latin scientia) - top
down and bottom up approaches to Christian truth and dogma, and talks
about the different methods used to "decide" on an issue. It's a treatise
on interpretation and institutional power.
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