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For centuries, philosophers and scientists have debated what truly exists in the universe. Traditionally, the answer has been space and time—the two fundamental dimensions without which the material world cannot be understood. Yet, as humanity moves deeper into the digital era, a new paradigm emerges. Just as space and time form the base of physical reality, in the centuries to come, data and information will form the foundation of social, economic, and technological reality.
In truth, these four elements—space, time, data, and information—already coexist today. Every human action, every scientific discovery, every economic decision, and every cultural expression rests on these pillars. Space and time govern our physical lives, while data and information increasingly govern our intellectual and social existence.
Data is the raw material of the modern world. It records behavior, movement, consumption, and even emotions in digital form. Information is processed data—organized, meaningful, and capable of influencing decisions. Together, they shape markets, drive policies, and dictate the direction of innovation. In fact, the most powerful institutions of today are not those who own vast lands or natural resources, but those who control massive pools of data and the ability to transform it into actionable information.
As the centuries unfold, the dominance of data and information will only deepen. Artificial intelligence, automation, and digital governance are early signs of this transformation. Nations, corporations, and even individuals who can harness data effectively will “run the show,” setting the rhythm of progress.
Thus, just as we accept space and time as eternal constants of existence, we must recognize data and information as the new constants of human civilization. They are no longer peripheral tools but the true base of everything that really exists in the modern world.
