Name: What do we do with all this big data?
Uploaded: 2014-10-20T14:45:32Z
Duration: 12 min 13 s
Description: Does a set of data make you feel more comfortable? More successful? Then your interpretation of it is likely wrong. In a surprisingly moving talk, Susan Etlinger explains why, as we receive more and more data, we need to deepen our critical thinking skills. Because it's hard to move beyond counting things to really understanding them.

Susan Etlinger: What do we do with all this big data?

What do we do with all this big data?

Does a set of data make you feel more comfortable? More successful? Then your interpretation of it is likely wrong. In a surprisingly moving talk, Susan Etlinger explains why, as we receive more and more data, we need to deepen our critical thinking skills. Because it's hard to move beyond counting things to really understanding them.

As technology floods the world with data, real understanding depends on asking better questions and thinking deeply about meaning. A child labeled nonverbal used a Google search to show his capabilities, challenging assumptions about what data truly reveal. Sweeping claims based on numbers often reflect biases or overlook vital context. Data alone does not create insight—thoughtful interpretation and a human lens make all the difference.