What are the types of uncertainty we must face in our life

Psychologists Paul KJ Han identified three categories of uncertainty. Probability, ambiguity, and complexity uncertainty. This is fascinating because we usually talk about uncertainty but don't specify its forms.

Each sort of uncertainty has a cause. That doubt comes from several sources is obvious. It usually means a fact's growth or repercussions are uncertain. Different factors can cause this ignorance.

All sorts of uncertainty are part of existence. This lack of confidence might cause concern and anxiety, but it's present in practically everything we do. Even if we deny it sometimes. Each sort of uncertainty will be examined in detail.

“Don't look for answers you can't understand because you're not ready to live them. What matters is experiencing everything. Live questions. Perhaps one day far away, you will uncover the answer gradually and unknowingly.”

Rainer Maria Rilke

This form of ambiguity occurs when a situation or decision's risk cannot be assessed. This frequently occurs when multiple variables are present. Thus, the outcome is unpredictable.

This uncertainty could be a dangerous sickness. Pathology and prognosis are usually known. The body's response to treatment is uncertain. We don't know how the sickness will progress.

People are usually optimistic in these situations. We generally expect no long-term detrimental repercussions. No evidence supports this claim. Thus, negative eventualities must be considered in such situations.

Paul KJ Han says ambiguity is the second sort of uncertainty. It occurs when a situation or decision's outcome is uncertain. This is because this topic lacks credible information. The information is incomplete, ambiguous, or unreliable.

Using an experimental drug is one example of this uncertainty. Thus, its efficacy is uncertain. There is also no confirmed side effect information. Although danger is estimated, it can vary greatly.

In this circumstance, it's best to obtain as much information as possible from credible sources. This may not completely fill the knowledge gap, but it can lessen confusion and help make a more responsible decision.

The risk and profit must also be considered. Non-intervention wins if risk or benefit are too high or low.

Complexity creates the third and last uncertainty. This type of problem is hard to understand because it's new or unexpected. We lack experience in this area.

Because it exposes multiple vulnerabilities, the latter case causes the most uncertainty. A common example is computer damage. It breaks suddenly, so we apply known patches. However, this is insufficient.

The 2020 crisis is another prime example. This new circumstance has confused everyone. Several months passed without a clear plan.

In unknown situations, staying cool is crucial. Taking an emotional distance from such circumstances helps put them in perspective and understand what's happening. Realise that the solution will take time and that gathering knowledge about the situation is crucial.

Due to human tendency to “play it safe,” every uncertainty causes discomfort. This, even if it's fake. Accepting uncertainty and learning to manage it is wise.

---