where would this device get the data necessary to craft future generational visions?  Everything the Columns needed to fulfill its primary purpose -- testing Wise Ones and Clan Chiefs -- is present within the candidates (even Rand.) There is no logical reason or imperative for the Columns to access anything outside of itself and the candidate -- or have the ability to do so.  Yet we see it do something that appears illogical, or requiring modification of what seems to be simple programming. 