Stage 2: Central Information
Knowledge is Power
Knowledge comes in many forms, not just book learning. The Central Information[1] system is envisioned as a repository of information and knowledge from library books for general reading, a computer database mapping topics and indices of available material, and interactive computer programs and instructional video “how-to's”. Unlike traditional electronic encyclopedias (Britannica, Encarta, Wikipedia,...) and/or search engines (Google, Ask.com, Bing) that provide a list of “hits” based on keyword relevance; the Central Information mainframe will process a question in English or other natural language into a logical language that the system can then infer an answer from based on the information in its database. The answer could come in the form of an article, dictionary entry, or statement. For example:
- “What is an archetype?”
- Would provide a dictionary entry and references to Alchemical and Jungian articles on what the archetype is.
- “How tall is the Eiffel Tower?”
- Would provide an answer, such as: “The Eiffel Tower is 984 feet tall.”
Apart from access to information and knowledge, the second aspect of the Central Information system is also the ability to create information, by providing the resources needed to write books, tutorials, record instructional videos or interactive computer programs.
Once information is made available, a place to assimilate it is needed. The third aspect of the Central Information system is a suitable place to read, watch, or discuss with others; similar to the intent of Libraries with added areas for conversation and dialog.
The CI structure would use Feng Shui to integrate grounded, energetic design with a clutter free environment to encourage learning and the stimulation of the mind, with space for meditation to contemplate, assimilate, and synthesize what is being learned.
1 Central Information, or "CI" for short, was the computer complex in Thea Alexander's book, 2150 AD, that contained not only knowledge about the world we live in, but was able to access the Akashic records to show you information on your past lives.