Navigating Knowledge in the Age of Post-Truth and AI: The modern polymath

Introduction

As I search for new projects, I’ve encountered feedback that has deeply resonated and sparked reflection. One perspective emphasized the necessity of being a generalist in fields like Information Technology (IT), where engineers are expected to "know a little about everything." Another opinion, more critical, suggested that while I knew many things, I was an expert in none. My response was simple yet pointed: in today’s rapidly evolving world, being a generalist—a modern polymath—is not just an advantage but a necessity. This notion becomes even more significant in the era of post-truth, where discernment and the ability to convert data into actionable knowledge are paramount.

In this article, I explore the evolving role of polymaths, the importance of generalist skills in recognizing and combating misinformation, and the profound implications for humanity’s mission in the age of AI and transhumanism.

The Polymath in a Fragmented World

A polymath, by definition, is someone whose knowledge spans a significant number of subjects, drawing on complex bodies of expertise to solve multifaceted problems. Historically, figures like Leonardo da Vinci embodied this archetype, integrating art, science, and engineering. In today’s world, polymath finds new relevance.

The post-truth era, characterized by widespread misinformation and the erosion of objective facts, demands individuals who can critically analyze, synthesize, and contextualize information across disciplines. This skillset aligns closely with the idea of being a generalist, particularly in AI, where understanding ethics, philosophy, mathematics, and cognitive sciences is critical to innovation and responsible advancement.

Knowledge as the Core of Humanity’s Mission

Reflecting on humanity’s purpose, I’ve argued that our ultimate mission is not merely the survival of our species but the preservation and expansion of knowledge. Knowledge, unlike fleeting human lifespans, has the potential to transcend physical and temporal boundaries. In the age of AI, this mission gains urgency as we grapple with technologies capable of both creating and distorting information.

The ability to transform data into information and then into actionable knowledge is no longer optional. It is essential to recognize patterns, discern truth from misinformation, and apply critical thinking—skills that align with the polymathic approach. An engineer specializing in emerging technologies who understands not just cloud systems but also the ethical implications of AI, the mathematical foundations of algorithms, and the sociopolitical contexts of technology is better equipped to navigate these challenges.

The Role of AI in Shaping Modern Polymaths

Artificial intelligence is redefining the landscape of knowledge. Pretrained Models, LLMs, and innovations in NLP are no longer tools confined to specific tasks; they are extensions of human cognition. My own research in developing an efficient NLP model for edge computing reflects this shift. I aim to democratize access to AI-driven knowledge, ensuring that even resource-constrained systems can contribute to the global knowledge pool.

Yet, there is a growing trend in public discourse, particularly on platforms like Social Networks, where AI is described “as a sapient entity capable of making decisions.” This framing is misleading; AI does not make decisions in the cognitive sense. Instead, it uses mathematical models to identify efficient paths through patterns in data. The cognitive process of decision-making remains a topic of study, and even the definition of intelligence is hotly debated among researchers. This is where being a polymath becomes invaluable: it equips one with the tools to debate these issues with evidence-based arguments and to understand the real implications and impacts of technological advances without succumbing to sensationalism.

Generalists vs. Specialists in the Post-Truth Era

The debate between being a generalist or a specialist is not new, but it has taken on renewed significance in the post-truth era. Specialists excel in depth, providing the rigorous expertise needed to advance specific fields. Generalists, however, offer breadth—the ability to connect seemingly disparate dots and address problems holistically.

In the field of emerging technologies, for instance, knowing how to design and implement systems is essential, but understanding how these systems interact with ethical considerations, organizational goals, and societal impacts adds unparalleled value. Deploying top solutions demands leveraging all our capabilities, where the ability to draw from multiple domains becomes indispensable.

The Future of Knowledge and the Role of Polymaths

As we navigate an era marked by rapid technological advances and unprecedented access to information, the importance of knowledge has become central to humanity’s progress. Polymaths—individuals who excel across multiple disciplines—are uniquely equipped to shape this future by connecting ideas, fostering critical inquiry, and addressing complex challenges with interdisciplinary solutions.

The rise of AI as a creator and curator of knowledge underscores the need for vigilance and a commitment to understanding the ethical, societal, and practical implications of these technologies. Polymaths, with their broad perspectives and ability to integrate knowledge from diverse fields, are essential in ensuring that advancements in AI and other emerging technologies serve humanity's long-term goals.

One example of this vision is the concept of Tlaquetzquis, which I proposed as part of Mexico's National Development Plan, a federal initiative inviting transformative ideas. These individuals are envisioned as local experts trained to preserve, digitize, and create linguistic and cultural resources. By empowering communities with the skills to deploy and maintain Knowledge Databases and NLP architectures, fostering technological autonomy and reduce dependency on external agents.

Beyond technical expertise, Tlaquetzquis not only safeguards linguistic and cultural legacies but also ensures that knowledge remains localized, inclusive, and accessible, a cornerstone of the polymathic vision for a connected and sustainable future.

In this age of unprecedented change, the polymath’s ability to synthesize knowledge and understand its broader implications is critical. By fostering a culture of inquiry and equipping communities with the tools to contribute meaningfully to the global knowledge pool, we can build a future where progress is inclusive, ethical, and sustainable.

* The term Tlaquetzquis originates from the Náhuatl language and historically referred to narrators or oral transmitters of stories and news, playing a vital role in preserving and disseminating cultural heritage.

Final thoughts

In a world increasingly shaped by misinformation and rapid technological change, the role of the polymath has never been more vital. Generalists who can navigate the complexities of diverse fields are essential for recognizing and combating post-truth narratives, advancing humanity's mission to turn data into knowledge while ensuring the ethical preservation and evolution of our cultural heritage.

As I continue my journey, I embrace the identity of a modern polymath, committed to connecting disciplines, questioning assumptions, and contributing to the preservation and expansion of knowledge—not just for the present but for the generations to come.