ant-vision
A metaphor for a narrow, fragmented perspective that fails to grasp the complexity and wholeness of society.
1 chapter across 1 book
Mirror Worlds (1991)David Gelernter
Chapter 2 of Mirror Worlds introduces the concept of Mirror Worlds as dynamic, interactive digital environments that represent complex real-world systems in real time, enabling users to explore, monitor, and engage with these systems through software agents and multiple perspectives. The chapter emphasizes the importance of whole-sightedness—grasping the entirety of complex societal structures—and presents Mirror Worlds as tools to overcome fragmented, limited perspectives ('ant-vision'), fostering transparency, continuous oversight, and enhanced civic engagement. It also highlights the technical foundations and societal significance of these large-scale civil software projects as instruments for holistic understanding and democratic participation.