Data-Information-Knowledge-Wisdom Model

[gL.edu] This article gathers contributions by Lukas Gauder, developed within the context of the Conceptual clarification about "Information, Knowledge and Philosophy", under the supervisión of J.M. Díaz Nafría.

Overview

The DIKW model, also known as the DIKW hierarchy or pyramid, is an illustration that helps to understand how data, information, knowledge, and wisdom can be interconnected in terms of creating the next step to the next higher level. The model is often used in the field of information management and knowledge management to understand how organizations can leverage their data and knowledge assets to make better decisions.

The DIKW model starts with data, which is raw, unprocessed facts, figures and signals. Data is collected through various sources such as sensors, senses, surveys, and transactions, and it is typically stored in a database. In order to make sense of the data, it needs to be transformed into information. Information is data that has been organized and processed in a way that it can be understood and used by humans. Information can be presented in various forms, such as reports, charts, and graphs. Once data has been transformed into information, it can be used to create knowledge. Knowledge is defined as the understanding and application of information. It is gained through experience, education, and training, and it allows individuals to make informed decisions and solve problems. Knowledge is often shared within organizations through various means such as training programs, classes, mentorship, and collaboration.

Finally, wisdom is the highest level in the DIKW model. Wisdom is the ability to use knowledge and experience to make sound and ethical decisions. It involves the application of critical thinking skills and the ability to understand the implications of a decision. Wisdom is often gained through experience and is often seen as a key attribute of leaders and their counselors.

One of the main advantages of the DIKW model is that it provides a framework for understanding how data and knowledge can be used to improve decision making. By understanding how data is transformed into information, knowledge, and wisdom, organizations can better leverage their data and knowledge assets to make better decisions. The model also helps to highlight the importance of critical thinking and experience in decision making, and it emphasizes the need for organizations to invest in the development of these skills.

However, the DIKW model has also been criticized for being too simplistic and for not adequately addressing the complexity of the data and knowledge management process. It has been argued that the model does not adequately take into account the role of context, culture, and power in the creation and dissemination of knowledge. Additionally, the model has been criticized for not adequately addressing the role of technology in the knowledge management process.

Despite these criticisms, the DIKW model remains a popular and influential framework in the field of information management and knowledge management. It provides a useful way of understanding how data, information, knowledge, and wisdom can be interconnected. By understanding the DIKW model, organizations can better leverage their data and knowledge assets to make better decisions and improve their overall performance.

Introduction

The Data-Information-Knowledge-Wisdom model is a framework that helps to understand the relationship between different forms of information within their databases. The DIKW pyramid is often used as a way to understand the relationship between these different forms of understanding and to encourage organizations to move beyond simply collecting data and towards a deeper understanding and use of that data to make informed decisions.

2.1 Origins

While uncertain, many believe that the Data-Information-Knowledge-Wisdom (DIKW) model finds its origin with Thomas Stearns Elliot, a famous American poet who became a leading figure in English-language Modernist poetry of the 20th century, in the play The Rock first publiched in 1934.

Where is the wisdom we have lost in knowledge?

Where is the knowledge we have lost in information? [1]

With these two questions T.S. Eliot lays the foundation of the theory and has since been built upon by many famous authors like Russell L. Ackoff. [2] [3]

Russell L. Ackoff was an American organizational theorist and management consultant known for his work in the fields of management science and operations research. One of his notable contributions was the development of the Knowledge Hierarchy (DIKW Hierarchy) in 1988 in an address to the International Society for General Systems (a worldwide organization for systems sciences) Research. Before we dive into the different levels of the DIKW Pyramid, we should define and explain the history of each first

Data

Data is a vital component of modern life and is present in almost every aspect of our daily tasks. It is used to inform and guide your knowledge, to improve efficiency and effectiveness, and to drive innovation and progress.

The word "data" has Latin roots and comes from the plural form of the Latin word "datum," which means "something given." [4] At its most basic, data is simply information that has been collected and organized in a specific way. This can be as simple as a list of names and addresses, or as complex as a dataset containing millions of rows of information. It can be collected in a variety of ways, including through surveys, experiments, and automated systems to be analyzed using a range of tools and techniques.

There are many types of data, including structured data, which is organized in a specific format, such as a spreadsheet or database, and unstructured data, which is more freeform and difficult to evaluate, such as text, images or signals. No matter the type, data is usually analyzed to extract insights and information to improve decision-making. This process is known as data analytics, and it involves a variety of techniques and tools to help identify patterns, trends, and other important information hidden within the data. [5]

This debate is particularly relevant in the context of scientific research, where the goal is to produce objective, reliable data that can be used to support or refute hypotheses. Some scientists argue that the scientific method is the best way to produce objective data, as it involves careful experimentation and controls to minimize the influence of personal bias. Others, however, argue that even scientific data is subject to interpretation and can be influenced by cultural, social, and political factors.

In addition to its practical applications, data has also played a significant role in shaping the way we think about and understand the world. The availability of large amounts of data has given rise to new fields, such as data science and machine learning, which are revolutionizing many areas of study and work. [5]

One of the most fundamental questions surrounding data from a philosophical point of view is whether it can be considered objective or subjective. Some philosophers argue that data is inherently objective, as it is based on observable and measurable phenomena. Others, however, argue that data is inherently subjective, as it is subject to interpretation and can be influenced by personal biases and perspectives.

Despite its many benefits, data also raises important ethical and privacy concerns. With the increasing amount of data being collected and shared, there is a risk that it could be misused or mishandled. Governments and businesses have a responsibility to ensure that data is used ethically and transparently, and to protect the privacy of individuals to protect their data and ensure that it is used ethically and responsibly. [6]

In conclusion, data is an invaluable resource that is present in almost every aspect of modern life. It allows us to make more informed decisions, improve efficiency and effectiveness, and drive innovation and progress. While there are concerns about privacy and security, by taking appropriate precautions and using data ethically, we can continue to reap the benefits of this powerful resource.

While some philosophers claim that data is objective and reliable, others argue that it is subjective and prone to error. Ultimately, these debates will likely remain as we continue to grapple with the role and significance of data in our increasingly data-driven world.

Information

The word "information" comes from the Latin verb "informare," which means" to form, shape, or create." [7]

On a fundamental level, data plays a crucial role in various fields such as communication, computer science, and education. It is a vital element that helps humans to make informed decisions, solve problems, and learn new things.

One of the key philosophical debates surrounding information is the nature of its existence. Some philosophers argue that information is a purely physical entity, existing as patterns or arrangements of matter or energy. Others believe that information is a non-physical entity, existing as an abstract concept that is independent of the material world. [8]

The concept of information dates back to ancient civilizations, where people used various forms of communication to exchange ideas, knowledge, and news. In the early days, information was transmitted through oral traditions, such as storytelling and singing, or through visual means, such as paintings and symbols. With the development of written language, information could be recorded and preserved for future generations.

One of the earliest forms of written language is hieroglyphics, which was used in ancient Egypt to record laws, religious texts, and historical events. The Greeks also used a system of symbols, known as cuneiform, to record information on clay tablets. The development of the alphabet in the Middle East and the use of paper in China revolutionized the way information was recorded and transmitted.

With the invention of the printing press in the 15th century, information could be disseminated to a larger audience more efficiently. The printing press allowed for the mass production of books, newspapers, and other written materials, making it easier for people to access information. [9]

In the modern age, the explosion of information has been driven by advances in technology. The internet has transformed the way we access and share information, making it available at our fingertips. We can now search for information on a vast array of topics, from science and history to current events and entertainment. [10]

The proliferation of social media has also contributed to the abundance of information available. People can share their thoughts, experiences, and opinions with a global audience through platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. While this has provided a platform for people to share their ideas and knowledge, it has also led to the spread of misinformation, which can have serious consequences.

Information is a fundamental concept that has played a vital role in human history. From ancient civilizations to the modern age, it has evolved and been shaped by technological advances. While the abundance of information available has provided us with numerous benefits, it has also led to challenges, such as the spread of misinformation. As we continue to generate and process vast amounts of data, it will be important to develop technologies and practices that allow us to manage and use information responsibly. [11]

Knowledge

Knowledge is a fundamental aspect of human experience. It is the understanding of facts, truths, and principles that we acquire through various means such as education, observation, and experience. The origin of knowledge is a complex and multifaceted topic that has been studied by philosophers, theologians, and scientists for centuries. The word "knowledge" literally means "knowing through teaching." [12]

One of the earliest theories on the origin of knowledge comes from ancient Greek philosophers such as Plato and Aristotle. Plato believed that knowledge was innate, and that it was present in the soul before birth. The soul was eternal and had access to all knowledge, but that access was lost upon entering the physical body. Aristotle, on the other hand, believed that knowledge was acquired through experience and observation. He argued that the mind was a blank slate at birth, and that it was through sensory experience and the use of reason that knowledge was gained. [13] [14]

The medieval philosopher and theologian Thomas Aquinas also had a theory on the origin of knowledge. Aquinas believed that all knowledge came from God, and that human beings were able to access this knowledge through the use of reason and faith. This idea is known as divine illumination, and it suggests that knowledge comes from a divine source and is revealed to us through our interactions with the world and our own thoughts. [15]

Knowledge requires the understanding of the given information with the skills aquired through learning and repitition. Knowledge is very dynamic through new input, new information or data, which lead to new experience and new outcomes of experimentation and observation.

In modern times, the scientific method has become the primary means by which knowledge is acquired and tested. The scientific method involves observing the world, forming a hypothesis, testing that hypothesis through experimentation, and drawing conclusions based on the results. This approach to knowledge acquisition has led to numerous scientific discoveries and advancements in fields such as physics, biology, and psychology.

Despite the various theories on the origin of knowledge, it is clear that it is an essential part of the human experience. Whether it is gained through divine illumination, sensory experience, or scientific experimentation, knowledge allows us to better understand the world around us and make informed decisions. It is through the pursuit of knowledge that we are able to improve our lives and the lives of those around us. [16] [17]

Wisdom

Wisdom is a highly valued trait in nearly all societies and cultures, and it is often depicted as a goddess or deity in mythological tales. In the ancient Greek myth of Athena, the goddess of wisdom was also the goddess of war, strategy, and crafts. In Hindu mythology, the god Brahma is often depicted as the creator of the universe and the embodiment of wisdom. In Native American cultures, the wise old man or woman is often a revered figure, revered for their knowledge and guidance.

But what is wisdom, and why is it so important? From an educational perspective, wisdom is often defined as the ability to make good decisions, particularly in complex or difficult situations. It is the ability to see the bigger picture and to understand the long-term consequences of our actions. Wisdom is often associated with knowledge and experience, as it is through life experiences that we learn and grow. [18] [19] Wisdom is the ability to see you knowledge from different perspectives and guide information and knowledge to the next step forward.

In psychology, wisdom is often described as a combination of cognitive and emotional intelligence. Cognitive intelligence refers to our ability to think and reason, while emotional intelligence refers to our ability to understand and manage our emotions and the emotions of others. Wisdom is the ability to use both cognitive and emotional intelligence to make good decisions and solve problems and guide through the process. [20]

There are many different ways that wisdom can be cultivated and developed. One way is through education and learning. This includes both formal education, such as through schools and universities, and informal education, such as through life experiences and personal growth. Another way is through mentorship and guidance from wise individuals, who can provide us with valuable insights and perspective.

Wisdom is also often associated with virtues such as patience, compassion, and humility. These virtues can help us to see things from different perspectives and to understand the experiences and emotions of others. They can also help us to be more open-minded and receptive to new ideas and ways of thinking.

In many cultures, wisdom is also associated with spiritual or religious beliefs. For example, in Buddhism, wisdom is considered one of the three pillars of the path to enlightenment, along with ethics and concentration. In Christianity, wisdom is often associated with the idea of seeking God's guidance and understanding.

Overall, wisdom is a complex and multifaceted concept, with roots in mythological, educational, and psychological perspectives. It is a trait that is highly valued and sought after, as it allows us to make good decisions and navigate complex situations. It is something that can be cultivated and developed through education, personal growth, and guidance from wise individuals. Ultimately, wisdom helps us to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life, and to make a positive impact on the world around us. [21]

The relationship between the levels

Ackoff believed that the DIKW Pyramid was a useful tool for understanding the different levels of knowledge and how they relate to one another, as well as for identifying the gaps and weaknesses in an organization's knowledge management system. He argued that organizations should strive to move up the pyramid by converting data into information, information into knowledge, and knowledge into wisdom, in order to make better decisions, solve complex problems, and improve overall performance.

However, he also recognized that the DIKW Pyramid was not a linear model and that knowledge could flow in both directions. It is not absolutely necessary to go through each level in order. For example, wisdom could inform knowledge, which in turn could inform information, which could inform data. A person may have a deep understanding of a particular subject without necessarily having access to all the relevant data. The idea that knowledge and wisdom are simply a matter of collecting and processing data is overly simplistic. People sometimes skip or revisit certain levels at different points in their learning process. He argued that organizations should be flexible and adaptable in their knowledge management practices and should be open to learning from all sources and at all levels of the pyramid.

In addition, Ackoff emphasized that the DIKW Pyramid was not a one-size-fits-all model, and that different organizations and industries would have different needs and priorities in terms of knowledge management. He believed that organizations should tailor their knowledge management strategies to their specific goals and needs, and should be willing to experiment and learn from their mistakes.

In conclusion, data, information, knowledge, and wisdom are interconnected concepts that are important in understanding and making sense of the world around us. The DIKW pyramid is often used to explain the importance of data and information in decision-making and problem-solving. It shows that data and information are just the starting point for gaining knowledge and wisdom. It is only through understanding and applying this knowledge that we can make informed and effective decisions.

The relationship between these four concepts can be thought of as a hierarchy, with data being the foundation and wisdom being the highest level of understanding. Data is collected and organized into information, which is used to gain knowledge. This knowledge is then applied to make wise decisions and judgments. [22] [23] [24]

7.1 Business

One way that the DIKW pyramid can be used is to understand, how knowledge is created, shared, and used in a business. In a business setting, data is often collected and analyzed in order to make decisions about marketing and sales or to help in product development, identify their knowledge gaps and develop strategies to fill them.

For example, a company might collect data on customer demographics, purchasing habits, or satisfaction levels. This data is then used to create reports and charts that provide information about the company's customers. With this information they are able to make decisions about the company's marketing and sales strategies. Maybe, a company might use customer demographics to target specific groups of customers with specific products or promotions. This requires knowledge of the customer base and the products or services being offered.

The DIKW Pyramid is also useful in understanding how knowledge is distributed within an organization. It helps businesses identify who has access to what knowledge and how that knowledge is being used. This can help businesses optimize their knowledge management strategies and ensure that knowledge is being shared and used effectively.

7.2 Government

The DIKW pyramid can also be used to understand the role of data and information in government. In a government setting, data is often collected and analyzed to make decisions about policy, funding, or resource allocation.

For example, a government might collect data on crime rates, poverty levels, or education outcomes. Now it can create reports or charts that provide information about the state of the community and make decisions about policy and resource allocation. For instance, a government may also collect data on crime rates in different neighborhoods and use this data to inform its crime prevention policies. The data would be processed and organized into information, such as maps showing crime hotspots, which are useful for informing the development of crime prevention strategies. Through this, the development of knowledge about crime prevention, which could be used to make more informed decisions about how to allocate resources to address crime in different areas, is supported. This requires knowledge of the community and the policies being implemented.

7.3 Education

In the context of education, the DIKW pyramid is often utilized to explain how students can progress from learning basic facts and information to applying that knowledge in a meaningful and insightful way. By starting with data and working their way up the pyramid, students can develop a deeper understanding of the subject matter and be better equipped to apply their knowledge in real-world situations. This is especially important in today's rapidly changing world, where being able to adapt and think critically is more important than ever.

Imagine you are studying for a test on a particular subject. You gather data on the subject by reading books, watching videos, and taking notes. This data is then processed and organized in a meaningful way, creating information that helps you to understand the subject. As you study and learn more about the subject, you absorb and understand the information, creating knowledge. Finally, you use this knowledge to solve problems and make decisions on the subject, demonstrating wisdom.

7.4 Modern days problems

Due to the overflooding amount of data and information on social media platforms, the known DIKW pyramid may be outdated in its currrent form. The sheer amount of constant new input on the "lower levels" will not let you proceed to understand the information and create knowledge, but will keep you on the same "level". The constant input will not let you handle the given data or information which will lead to a stagnation of the learning and creating process. In this case Information is treated like data therefore Information would take the lowest spot in the pyramid.

The worlds massive population and the interconnection between everyone on social media and various online platforms will lead to the exact same problem. Many people may have achieved wisdom or knowledge in a subject on different ways or methods which have to be structured and evaluated and stay on the inforrmation base for a newcomer in this subject.

7.5 Role of philosophy

To get from data to information you have to sort the data, filter and structure it. Data is everywhere through observation and preexperienced situations, data will be sorted and become inormation.

Information becomes knowledge if the presorted structured data is understood through repitition, exercise and learning.

Philosophy is the art off playing with and shaping the information and knowledge. To add different thoughts and other inforrmation to see everything from different perspectives. Throughout that process with the science of thinking and playing with this knowledge, maybe one will achieve wisdom.

Criticism

While the DIKW Pyramid has been widely used as a tool to understand and communicate the value of information in organizations, it has also received criticism from various quarters.

One of the main criticisms of the DIKW Pyramid is that it fails to adequately account for the role of context in shaping knowledge and understanding. The model suggests that data, information, knowledge, and wisdom are all universal and independent of their surroundings, but this is not always true. The meaning and significance of data, information, and knowledge can vary greatly depending on the context in which they are presented and used. For example, the same data may be interpreted differently by different people or groups depending on their cultural, historical, or personal experiences. The DIKW Pyramid does not adequately acknowledge the influence of context on knowledge and understanding, which can lead to differing conclusions and interpretations of the same information. Therefore, this model struggles to accurately represent the complex and nuanced nature of knowledge and its role in decision making.

In addition, the pyramid oversimplifies the complex process of acquiring knowledge. The model suggests that knowledge can be achieved by simply accumulating data and information, which is not necessarily the case. In reality, knowledge acquisition is a dynamic and iterative process that involves critical thinking, analysis, and interpretation of information. While data and information are often considered the most objective forms of knowledge, other types of knowledge, such as experiential and intuitive knowledge, can be equally valuable and important. [24]

Another criticism is that this model does not account for the role of emotion and subjectivity in knowledge and understanding. The model suggests that knowledge and wisdom are objective and unbiased, but this is not always the case. Emotions, biases, and personal experiences can all play a significant role in shaping an individual's understanding of the world. For example, a person may be more likely to believe certain information if it aligns with their preexisting beliefs or values. Similarly, a person's emotional state can influence their ability to process and understand new information. The DIKW Pyramid does not take these factors into account, which can lead to a distorted or incomplete understanding of reality.

Furthermore, the DIKW Pyramid has been criticized for its focus on individual knowledge and understanding, rather than collective or shared knowledge. The model suggests that each person has their own personal understanding of the world, which is built on a foundation of data and information. However, this ignores the fact that much of our knowledge and understanding is shaped by social and cultural influences and is often shared and negotiated within groups or communities. The DIKW Pyramid does not adequately address the role of shared knowledge in shaping our understanding of the world, which can lead to a narrow and individualistic view of knowledge. It fails to consider the importance of collaboration and communication in the creation and dissemination of knowledge.

Finally, the DIKW Pyramid does not adequately address the role of power and politics in knowledge creation and decision making. In many cases, the knowledge and information that is considered most valuable and useful is determined by those who hold power and influence. This can result in a narrow and biased perspective on knowledge and can prevent the emergence of alternative viewpoints and ideas. Some individuals and groups may have greater access to data and information and may be in a better position to generate and disseminate knowledge. They may collect data very selective or fund research particularly to support a certain narrative instead of the truth. This can lead to imbalances in the distribution of knowledge and power.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the DIKW Pyramid is a very useful tool for the understanding of how the levels are interconnected between each another. However, it has also received criticism for its oversimplification of the complex process of knowledge creation and management, its lack of consideration for context, emotions or power dynamics and its focus on individual wisdom. While the DIKW Pyramid can be a useful tool for understanding and communicating the value of information, it should not be seen as a comprehensive model for knowledge creation and management. [25]

It is important to note that the criticism does not necessarily negate the usefulness of the DIKW model, but rather highlights its limitations which the connection and progress between the levels is.

References

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