difficultknown

Difficultknown is a term used in philosophy, information theory, and related fields to denote propositions or states of knowledge that are known to be true or highly probable, yet whose verification, justification, or discovery is exceptionally difficult due to complexity, scale, or epistemic limitations. It contrasts with easy knowledge and well-supported assertions by the practical effort required to establish or verify it. The term has appeared in online discussions and some interdisciplinary literature addressing epistemic boundaries and uncertainty, where it is used to describe problems that resist straightforward empirical testing or formalization.

Difficultknowns share several features: high cognitive or methodological demands to obtain evidence, dependence on many contingent factors, and a high sensitivity to underlying assumptions. Knowledge about certain complex systems—such as the exact long-term trajectory of a coupled climate model under untested policies, or the precise inner state of a large deployed AI—can be considered difficultknown because, though there may be strong indicators, direct verification or replication remains impractical.

Usage and critique: The term is used to frame discussions about the limits of what can be known and how to reason under deep uncertainty. Critics argue that labeling something as difficultknown risks conflating current epistemic barriers with inherent unknowability, potentially discouraging search for better methods. Supporters see it as a useful category for planning and risk assessment, encouraging humility and robust decision-making in the face of stubborn uncertainty.