Defining our goal

Essentially, our task here is to conceive a mechanism that is capable of dealing with any data that it is introduced to. In doing so, we want this mechanism to detect any underlying patterns present in our data, in order to leverage it for our own benefit. Succeeding at this task means that we will be able to translate any form of raw data into knowledge, in the form of actionable business insights, burden-alleviating services, or life-saving medicines. Hence, what we actually want is to construct a mechanism that is capable of universally approximating any possible function that could represent our data; the elixir of knowledge, if you will. Do step back and imagine such a world for a moment; a world where the deadliest diseases may be cured in minutes. A world where all are fed, and all may choose to pursue the pinnacle of human achievement in any discipline...