Black Boxes

A "black box" is a term used to describe a system or device whose internal workings are not visible or understood, but whose inputs and outputs can be observed. In various fields, including technology and science, a black box allows users to analyze how changes in inputs affect outputs without needing to comprehend the complex processes inside. For example, in machine learning, algorithms can make predictions based on data, but the exact reasoning behind those predictions may remain opaque. This concept emphasizes the functionality of systems while highlighting the limits of our understanding.