Thinking Machines: How Digital Tools Expand Our Minds

Ability of people to process information is limited by factors such as bounded rationality and physical constraints in the brain. Consequences of bounded rationality include sub-optimal decisions, biases and heuristics, limited problem solving, inefficient resource allocation, missed opportunities, increased risk and lack of innovation.

Digital Tools help overcome this by providing access to vast amounts of information, data analytics and visualization, advanced computational capabilities, decision support systems / nudges and automation of routine tasks.

Externalized computations refer to the idea that what happens in our brain can be done outside in a machine. Externalized computations include smartphone cameras, virtual assistants, GPS Navigation, online shopping recommendations, health tracking, language translation and so on. Overall, these are the computations that were performed by humans now which are being done by digital technologies.

Computational freedom refers to the ability of individuals to leverage digital technologies and tools to expand their thinking, capabilities, and opportunities. It encompasses the freedom to access information, explore new ideas, collaborate with others, and express creativity in the digital realm. Computational freedom is a key driver of digital transformation, as it seeks to empower individuals and organizations to harness the power of technology for personal and professional growth.

Computational freedom, as outlined above, is a cornerstone of digital transformation. It empowers individuals and organizations to leverage digital technologies to overcome cognitive limitations, access vast amounts of information, and make more informed decisions. By externalizing computations, individuals can free up mental capacity for higher-order thinking, creativity, and problem-solving. This, in turn, drives innovation, improves decision-making, and enhances efficiency across various domains. As computational freedom continues to evolve, it will play an increasingly vital role in shaping the future of work, education, healthcare, and society as a whole.

PS: This is notes from Advanced Digital Transformation course