omnisciencewhere

Omnisciencewhere is a neologism used to describe a hypothetical epistemic state that combines omniscience with locational specificity. In its strongest sense, it denotes complete and instantaneous knowledge of the exact spatial positions of all objects within a defined domain at a given moment, potentially including knowledge about the identities and trajectories of those objects. The term is typically discussed in philosophy of mind, metaphysics, theology, and speculative fiction as a way to explore the nature and limits of knowledge about space.

Etymology: The word blends “omniscience” with the question word “where,” signaling knowledge of locations rather than only propositions about existence or properties. The construction emphasizes spatial awareness as a central component of perfect knowledge.

Usage and contexts: In philosophy and theology, omnisciencewhere is used to examine issues surrounding divine foreknowledge, determinism, and the possibility of a perfectly informed mind. In literature and media, it functions as a plot device in which a character or system can instantly map all spatial relations within a habitat or entire universe, prompting reflections on responsibility, privacy, and information control.

Criticism and debates: A common critique is that knowledge of all positions at a single moment may not suffice for full omniscience, especially when temporal dynamics, observer effects, or information limits are taken into account. Physics presents additional challenges through relativity and quantum mechanics, which complicate simultaneous, universal position assignments. Proponents often treat omnisciencewhere as a useful abstraction for exploring epistemic boundaries, information theory, and computational limits.

See also: omniscience, epistemology, metaphysics, determinism, space and time, information theory.