Oracular Computing

Oracular Computing

Oracular computing uses conventional computers together with a mind that can forecast likely outcomes through the predictive effects of Temporal Nonlinearity. That mind may be a trained Esper, a purpose-grown AGI Esper, or a spirit bound through Necrotech. It evaluates possible outcomes and returns forecasts weighted by their likelihood. These forecasts help users rank routes, market positions, military contingencies, and experiments.

An oracle can predict only observable outcomes reachable from the evidence currently available. It cannot supply missing observations, reveal a deterministic fact that has never been observed, or complete arbitrary computation. Its predictions become less reliable the further ahead it looks, the more possibilities branch from the current situation, and the more interference it encounters.

Acting on a forecast can also change the outcome it predicts. Rival oracles can alter the conditions each is trying to forecast, further complicating their predictions. Users still have to interpret the results and later check them against what actually happens.