nonnumerik

Nonnumerik is a term used to describe approaches, theories, or systems that prioritize non-numeric methods for representing, processing, or communicating information. In this sense, nonnumerik encompasses qualitative, symbolic, relational, and spatial modalities that do not rely primarily on numeric values or statistical metrics.

Origin and usage: The term has appeared in interdisciplinary discussions within information design, digital art, human-computer interaction, and qualitative research since the early 2010s. It is used to critique or complement numeric-centric paradigms by highlighting alternative forms of meaning-making and evaluation.

Characteristics: Core features include non-numeric encoding (colors, shapes, textures, positions, gestures), qualitative or approximate reasoning, symbolic or relational data structures, and emphasis on interpretability and accessibility. Nonnumerik-friendly interfaces often use visual or tactile cues rather than numeric readouts.

Applications: Fields include data visualization emphasizing perceptual judgment rather than values, qualitative research methods, symbolic programming, visual arts installations, and user interfaces that convey information through shape and color rather than numbers.

Reception and critique: Proponents argue nonnumerik broadens accessibility and fosters holistic understanding, while critics caution that removing numbers can reduce precision, hinder comparability, or complicate formal analysis.

See also: Non-numeric data, qualitative research, symbolic AI, visual programming languages.