UNSPECIFIED (1999) The search for simplicity: A fundamental cognitive principle? [Journal Item]

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Abstract

It is proposed that the cognitive system imposes patterns on the world according to a simplicity principle: Choose the pattern that provides the briefest representation of the available information. The simplicity principle is normatively justified-patterns that support simple representations provide good explanations and predictions on the basis of which the agent can make decisions and actions. Moreover, the simplicity principle appears to be consistent with empirical data from many psychological domains, including perception, similarity, learning, memory, and reasoning. Thus, the simplicity principle promises to serve as the starting point for the rational analysis of a wide range of cognitive processes, in Anderson's (1990, 1991a) sense. The simplicity principle also provides a framework for integrating a wide range of existing psychological proposals.

Item Type:	Journal Item
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Journal or Publication Title:	QUARTERLY JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY SECTION A-HUMAN EXPERIMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY
Publisher:	PSYCHOLOGY PRESS
ISSN:	0272-4987
Date:	May 1999
Volume:	52
Number:	2
Number of Pages:	30
Page Range:	pp. 273-302
Publication Status:	Published
URI:	http://wrap.warwick.ac.uk/id/eprint/14521

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