Model theory of deduction: a unified computational approach

Abstract

One of the most debated questions in psychology and cognitive science is the nature and the functioning of the mental processes involved in deductive reasoning. However, all existing theories refer to a specific deductive domain, like syllogistic, propositional or relational reasoning.Our goal is to unify the main types of deductive reasoning into a single set of basic procedures. In particular, we bring together the microtheories developed from a mental models perspective in a single theory, for which we provide a formal foundation. We validate the theory through a computational model (UNICORE) which allows fine-grained predictions of subjects' performance in different reasoning domains.The performance of the model is tested against the performance of experimental subjects-as reported in the relevant literature-in the three areas of syllogistic, relational and propositional reasoning. The computational model proves to be a satisfactory artificial subject, reproducing both correct and erroneous performance of the human subjects. Moreover, we introduce a developmental trend in the program, in order to simulate the performance of subjects of different ages, ranging from children (3-6) to adolescents (8 -12) to adults (Ͼ21). The simulation model performs similarly to the subjects of different ages.Our conclusion is that the validity of the mental model approach is confirmed for the deductive reasoning domain, and that it is possible to devise a unique mechanism able to deal with the specific subareas. The proposed computational model (UNICORE) represents such a unifying structure.

Choosing one at a time? Presenting options simultaneously helps people make more optimal decisions than presenting options sequentially

“…Third, we contribute to the literature on choice processes by documenting the relationship between working memory and decision quality. A rich body of research has shown that higher cognitive abilities, such as greater working memory capacity, are associated with higher general intelligence, deductive reasoning, and decision quality (Bara et al, 2001;Kyllonen & Christal, 1990;Stanovich & West, 2000). However, highlighting the role of contextual factors, Experiment 3 shows that this relationship holds only when the decision environment facilitates cognitive processing, as in the case of simultaneous condition.…”

“…Multiple studies have found that individual differences in working memory capacity predict the quality of people's judgments and decisions (Bara, Bucciarelli, & Lombardo, 2001;Kyllonen & Christal, 1990;Stanovich & West, 2000). The beneficial effect of higher working memory capacity on judgments and decisions could work through two routes: the ability to store more information, and the ability to process more information (Baddeley & Hitch, 1974;Barrouillet, Portrat, & Camos, 2011;Daneman & Carpenter, 1980;Turner & Engle, 1989).…”

Mental Models Theory and Anaphora

“…In order to use a more unambiguous version of the framework with respect to the 'diagrammatic' original version of [9], we refer to the formalization of mental models provided by [1].…”

“…, x¨are tokens in T and A is a set of annotations. Annotations are "the propositional enrichment of the analogical structure of the model" [1]. In particular, the "not" annotation applies to any feature of the models.…”

“…The "..." annotation means that the model can be further extended. [1] consider relations such as 'above', 'faster' and two special relations "connected with" (CW) and "never connected with" (NCW). The CW relation forms an individual by connecting two of its properties.…”