"Knowledge is a species of information, but not all information is knowledge, because it does not have causal power. It cannot propagate." — David Deutsch, Oxford Physicist
My "Plain English" simplification
Information becomes knowledge when it can be followed by a meaningful and accurate “because,” and has the potential to be shared in a way that lets others use and build on it.
Further Simplification (ultra-brief takeaway)
Knowledge = information + meaningful, accurate “because” + potential to spread.
My Bite-Sized Simplification
Information becomes knowledge when it can be followed by a meaningful “because.”
Quick Examples
- Information: "The sky is blue." Knowledge: "The sky is blue because air molecules scatter blue light more than red."
- Information: "This plant heals wounds." Knowledge: "This plant heals wounds because it contains a compound that prevents bacterial growth."
Quick Test
Ask: If I say “because…” after this statement, does the rest make sense, is it accurate, and could I pass it on so others can use it?