Heuristic reasoning about uncertainty: an artificial intelligence approach
A model of reasoning about uncertainty, called the model of endorsement, is presented. Part of the model is implemented in an artificial intelligence (AI) program called SOLOMON, which is also discussed. Uncertainty has a passive role in current AI programs. It is typically represented as a number that is incremented or decremented as evidence becomes available. The number has little if any influence on the control of reasoning, and the relationship between the number associated with a proposition and the evidence for the proposition is unclear. In contrast, the model of endorsement represents uncertainty as the body of reasons for believing and disbelieving a proposition. Numerical degrees of belief, which might be derived from these reasons, have not proved necessary. The reasons are called endorsements, and guide SOLOMON's reasoning. The most important characteristic of the model of endorsement is that it provides the information needed for uncertainty to influence the way a program solves problems. The dissertation focusses on this idea, its implementation, and its ramifications.
- OSTI ID:
- 5900878
- Resource Relation:
- Other Information: Thesis (Ph. D.)
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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