uninformed

Uninformed is an adjective describing a lack of information or knowledge about a particular subject, topic, or situation. A person or group can be uninformed about one matter while informed about others. Uninformed does not necessarily imply willful ignorance; it commonly results from limited access to reliable data, insufficient exposure, or cognitive burden that makes information difficult to process.

In decision making, being uninformed increases the risk of uncertain judgments and weak preferences. Behavioral economics examines how information provision, framing, and deadlines help people move from an uninformed to an informed state. In public discourse, the term is often applied to describe voters or participants who have not learned about issues or candidates, highlighting the role of information access and education.

Assessing whether someone is uninformed is inherently relative and context-dependent. Researchers may use knowledge tests, self-reports, or exposure measures. The term can be misused to shame dissent; thus careful use distinguishes between lack of access and willful disregard.

Related terms include informed, ignorance, and misinformed. Information asymmetry describes unequal access to information that can leave one side uninformed relative to others. Efforts to reduce uninformed states include providing clear information, education, and transparent communication.