Concepts of the Ideal and the Reality in the Age of Big Data. Systemic Aspects

This article examines the transformation of classical epistemological concepts of the ideal and the reality in the context of modern Data Science. The evolution from theory-driven to data-driven paradigm is considered. It demonstrates the existence of a different approach to the nature of data, one in which it is viewed not as a neutral “copy” of reality, but as an ideal – a product of the purposeful structuring of subject space. This approach requires a reconsideration of established epistemological notions about the cognitive process and theoretical modeling, which marks the emergence of a new, essentially constructivist, cognitive approach. It emphasizes that knowledge is not simply discovered but created through working with data, opening up new horizons for exploring and understanding the world around us. Thus, the article highlights the importance of rethinking traditional views on epistemology in light of the new realities associated with data use and calls for a deeper understanding of the role of the latter in shaping our knowledge of the world.