Theory-based Bayesian models of inductive learning and reasoning

Trends Cogn Sci. 2006 Jul;10(7):309-18. doi: 10.1016/j.tics.2006.05.009. Epub 2006 Jun 22.

Abstract

Inductive inference allows humans to make powerful generalizations from sparse data when learning about word meanings, unobserved properties, causal relationships, and many other aspects of the world. Traditional accounts of induction emphasize either the power of statistical learning, or the importance of strong constraints from structured domain knowledge, intuitive theories or schemas. We argue that both components are necessary to explain the nature, use and acquisition of human knowledge, and we introduce a theory-based Bayesian framework for modeling inductive learning and reasoning as statistical inferences over structured knowledge representations.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Association Learning / physiology
  • Bayes Theorem*
  • Brain / physiology
  • Cognition / physiology*
  • Comprehension / physiology
  • Concept Formation / physiology
  • Generalization, Psychological / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Intuition / physiology
  • Learning / physiology*
  • Models, Statistical*
  • Probability Theory
  • Problem Solving / physiology*
  • Verbal Learning / physiology