Ask HN: do we know next to nothing?
Only in moments of (subjective) clarity do I entertain the possibility that we know nothing. The big questions on the nature of existence and reality don't yet have answers - and I suspect these questions are quite primitive in the scheme of things.
All beings of a lesser intelligence to us cannot comprehend the cognition of humanity. And I'm assuming that we too have our cognitive limits.
In the midst of musings such as these, science loses its sturdiness. Uncertainty permeates all we know - all rabbit holes lead to boundaries. Mechanisms that we cannot grasp. The pursuit of science pushes on - the { set } of things we know expands, and we take comfort in this island.
Do we forget that it all sits upon the backdrop of an infinite, incomprehensible set. All which can, and cannot, exist. All that has, and will, exist. The void which science finds itself within, dwarfs that of the Pale Blue Dot.
I do not mean to disrespect the scientific method - I hold it dear and celebrate its existence.
For me, this is the only time I ponder the concept of alternative beings. Perhaps we could call this God - though I suspect the set of things our species would classify as God is expansive.
Are the mechanisms and fabric which bring about our experience not themselves greater than us? Is this the only experience able to be generated, and if not, are the processes of generating agency themselves self-aware?
I cannot believe that in this sea of uncertainty, my/our existence is the height of experience. Surely agency/intention cannot only exist within the physical bounds of our planet. I know I have no grounds to explore further than the light science can shine; and yet I find myself here again, and again.
I'd love to have get a reality check, or hear from those who have thoughts of a similar nature.