Written 08.29.2019

Pretend we are in a simulation. Each and every phenomenon is programmed by variations of code, composed in languages we cannot specify but can somewhat decipher. We’ve identified patterns and constants. Checkpoints of knowledge that serve as reminders of how far we’ve come, as well as how much further there is to go.

To summarize my immature perspective on research, there seems to be two general goals that motivate the pursuit of knowledge. The first goal is to decipher the code as it is written— the what, why, and how (what is the code doing? how is it written? why is it written that way?). The second builds upon the first— to manipulate the code we’ve deciphered and see how the outcome changes— the what if. What if we change that? What’s going to happen now? Keep it mind it isn’t just scientific curiosity that drives research. There is an overarching motivation behind all fields of study, regardless of division. To utilize the knowledge gained to ultimately benefit humanity. Unfortunately, this is purely a romanticization of the pursuit of knowledge. The code itself is impartial to both the selfish and unselfish desires of its interpreter.

What motivated me to write this post is still unknown to me. To some degree it is a reflection of my two months of employment. In another, it criticizes the selfish nature of those who decipher the code earlier than others. Specifically of those who choose to withhold their newfound discovery. Are they choosing to ignore the long-term consequences or are they simply too near-sighted to realize? On the other hand, do I even know enough to be worthy of making such pointed claims?

Everyday I find myself on the spectrum of doubt, skepticism, and curiosity.