The generation of explanations is considered as a main asset of knowledge-based systems. In this paper we show that current approaches of generating explanations for constraint satisfaction problems fall short. These approaches can lead to spurious explanations with respect to a proposed (or selected) solution. We introduce an extension of current explanation principles such that all explanatio...

The proper motions of pulsars [1] present an intriguing astrophysical puzzle. The measured velocities of pulsars exceed those of the ordinary stars in the galaxy by at least an order of magnitude. The data suggest that neutron stars receive a powerful \kick" at birth. Whatever the cause of the kick, the same mechanism may also explain the rotations of pulsars under some conditions [2]. The orig...

In both cognitive science and philosophy, many theorists have recently appealed to a predictive processing framework offer explanations of why certain individuals form delusional beliefs. One aim this essay will be illustrate how one could plausibly develop account in different ways for the onset kinds delusions. However, second discuss two significant limitations framework. First, I shall draw...

Explanation-based learning (EBL) is a powerful method for category formation. However, EBL systems are only effective if they start with good explanations. The problem of evaluating candidate explanations has received little attention: Current research usually assumes that a single explanation will be available for any situation, and that this explanation will be appropriate. In the real world ...

“Now” is privileged in most psychological theories, which portray their processes as proceeding from moment-to-moment. As in any science, this adherence to contiguous causation hinders an account of phenomena that involve remote events or temporally extended organization. In addition, our scientific discourse is framed by the everyday patterns we have learned in explaining our own actions and t...

The current study experimentally investigated the impact of causal-explanatory information on weight bias over development. Participants (n = 395, children ages 4–11 years and adults) received either a biological or behavioral explanation for body size, neither, in three between-subjects conditions. then made preference judgments characters with smaller versus larger sizes. Results showed that ...

A comparative fact can be presented in two ways. ‘Among white evangelical Christians, Obama had 40% fewer votes than McCain.’ or ‘Among white evangelical Christians, McCain had 40% more votes than Obama.’ Focusing on why Obama had fewer votes than McCain may result in a different explanation from focusing on why McCain had more votes than Obama, although it is the same fact. Thus what determine...