The New Dark Age

James Bridle’s Chilling Theory on How Big Data Is Destroying Knowledge Itself

The New Dark Age: James Bridle’s Chilling Theory on How Big Data Is Destroying Knowledge Itself explores the profound implications of technology and data on contemporary understanding and knowledge acquisition. In his influential work, New Dark Age (2018), Bridle argues that humanity’s reliance on big data has ushered in a “new dark age,” where an abundance of information fails to translate into meaningful understanding. This situation raises significant concerns about existential crises such as climate change, systemic inequality, and the pervasive impact of mass surveillance, ultimately complicating our ability to navigate complex societal challenges.

The greatest enemy of knowledge is not ignorance, it is the illusion of knowledge.

Stephen Hawking

Bridle critiques the prevalent belief that more information automatically leads to better decision-making, highlighting the disconnect between data overload and the nuanced understanding required for informed engagement. He introduces the concept of “systemic literacy,” advocating for a deeper comprehension of digital technologies and their socio-political implications to empower individuals in a data-driven world. His arguments have sparked vital discussions about education, governance, and the socio-political dynamics at play in an era marked by rapid technological advancement and information saturation.

The book’s reception has not been without controversy; critics have questioned Bridle’s dismissal of technological progress in fields like geoengineering and material science, arguing that his views may oversimplify the complexities of modern science and its potential benefits. Additionally, some reviewers caution against his pessimistic tone, suggesting that a more balanced perspective could foster constructive dialogue around technology’s role in society. As discussions surrounding the implications of big data continue to evolve, Bridle’s work serves as a provocative call to reassess our relationship with knowledge and the systems that govern it.

Background

James Bridle’s work explores the implications of technology and data on our understanding of the world. The book begins with a personal narrative set in November 2014, where the author reflects on his experiences waiting for a plane in Farnborough, England, while examining the intersection of surveillance, computation, and the climate. Bridle delves into the philosophical concerns of how we acquire knowledge, particularly in an era dominated by “big data,” which he critiques as flawed and dangerous due to its reductionist tendencies.

Bridle argues that the reliance on quantification, termed “quantified thinking,” undermines our ability to reason effectively about complex systems. He posits that the increasing standardization of knowledge complicates meaningful discourse and contributes to a misunderstanding of technological advancements, often conflating sheer information volume with true knowledge. This digital overload presents a paradox: while technology grants us unprecedented access to information, it frequently obscures genuine understanding.

Furthermore, Bridle critiques the prevailing belief that more information equates to better decision-making, emphasizing the disconnect between information overload and the nuanced understanding necessary to navigate our modern, entangled civilization. Ultimately, his work serves as a call to acknowledge the limitations of our current knowledge frameworks and to rethink how we interact with the vast data landscape surrounding us.

James Bridle

James Bridle is a writer, artist, and technologist from London, currently residing in Athens. They are recognized for their interdisciplinary approach, which encompasses journalism, art, and technology. Bridle’s work critically engages with contemporary technologies, including drones, driverless cars, and streaming services, through speculative objects, installations, and thought pieces. This creative exploration prompts audiences to question and critique their relationship with technology and the broader implications of living in a digital age.

Career and Works

Bridle is the author of several influential books, including New Dark Age (2018) and Ways of Being (2022). Their writings have appeared in various reputable publications such as The Guardian, The Observer, Wired, The Atlantic, and Frieze. In addition to their written work, Bridle produced the BBC Radio Four series New Ways of Seeing in 2019, further showcasing their commitment to exploring the intersections of technology, culture, and society.

The Concept of a New Dark Age

In New Dark Age, Bridle surveys the interplay between art, technology, and information systems, highlighting the profound uncertainties of contemporary existence. The book suggests that we are entering a “New Dark Age,” characterized by a cloudiness of understanding, where the past is contested and the future is uncertain. Bridle’s reflections touch upon various forces at play, indicating that the challenges we face are not solely technological but are also rooted in broader socio-political contexts.

Bridle’s critical stance challenges readers to rethink their engagement with technology, emphasizing the need for a nuanced understanding of how these advancements impact our lives and societal structures. This work has provoked discussions around education, ecological awareness, and the entangled nature of human and non-human intelligences, advocating for a more holistic view of our interconnected realities.