Showing papers in "Kybernetes in 1997"
TL;DR: Presents an inductive machine learning algorithm called CLIP3 (Cover learning using integer programming), an extension of the CLILP2 algorithm that combines the best concepts of tree‐based and rule‐based algorithms to produce a highly reliable machine‐learning algorithm.
Abstract: Presents an inductive machine learning algorithm called CLIP3 (Cover learning using integer programming). CLIP3 is an extension of the CLILP2 algorithm. CLIP3 generates multiple rules for a given concept from two sets of discrete attribute data. It combines the best concepts of tree‐based and rule‐based algorithms to produce a highly reliable machine‐learning algorithm. The algorithm is run on the benchmark “MONK′s data sets”. Compares the results of standard machine learning algorithms such as the ID and AQ families of algorithms. The algorithm is also run on the breast cancer data set and the results are compared with C4.5 algorithm results.
40 citations
TL;DR: It is proposed that quantum coherence is the basis of living organization and can also account for key features of conscious experience: the “unity of intentionality”; the authors' inner identity of the singular “I” and the simultaneous binding and segmentation of features in the perceptive act.
Abstract: Proposes that quantum coherence is the basis of living organization and can also account for key features of conscious experience: the “unity of intentionality”; our inner identity of the singular “I”; the simultaneous binding and segmentation of features in the perceptive act; the distributed, holographic nature of memory; and the distinctive quality of each experienced occasion.
34 citations
TL;DR: An asymptotic expansion for the distribution function of the power divergence statistics whose speed of convergence is dependent on the parameter of the family by considering the family of (h, φ)‐divergence measures is presented.
Abstract: Read (1984) presented an asymptotic expansion for the distribution function of the power divergence statistics whose speed of convergence is dependent on the parameter of the family. Generalizes that result by considering the family of (h, φ)‐divergence measures. Considers two other closer approximations to the exact distribution. Compares these three approximations for the Renyi’s statistic in small samples.
28 citations
TL;DR: Attempts to show examples of automatic programming of cellular automata using identification algorithms and results obtained can be used in the design of massively parallel processors with cellular‐automata architecture and a conventional, as well as non‐traditional, elementary base.
Abstract: To program cellular automata is to define cell neighbourhood and cell‐state transition rules in order to design an automation which exhibits determined patterns in its evolution or which transforms a given image into another image. In general, a tool for the automatic programming of cellular automata should translate the tuple (source‐configuration) → (target‐configuration) into a set of cell‐state transition rules. This is a problem which has not been completely solved yet. Attempts to show examples of automatic programming of cellular automata using identification algorithms. Results obtained can be used in the design of massively parallel processors with cellular‐automata architecture and a conventional, as well as non‐traditional (e.g. molecular and chemical), elementary base.
27 citations
TL;DR: This work analyzes the logic of feedback and how it relates to the question of how logical, mathematical and linguistic instruments can articulate scientific observations and connected theories.
Abstract: Cybernetics started when Wiener stated that not only observations but also the way the observer feeds them back into reality are part of science. Dynamic system analysis supported the art and science of steering with feedback by computer modelling techniques. Cybernetics introduced the question of how self‐reference functioned in the feedback between observer and models. This led to the idea of cybernetics of the second order. Analyses the logic of feedback and how it relates to the question of how logical, mathematical and linguistic instruments can articulate scientific observations and connected theories. Uses the concept of complexity to relate cybernetics to the interdisciplinary practice of modern science. Presents the notion of “strangification” as a concept by which the transfer of knowledge from one discipline to another can be better understood and facilitated.
25 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors solve Fredholm and Volterra nonlinear integral equations of the first kind using the Adomian method, but since these equations are not under the canonical form u−Nu = f, they propose some transformations for reducing the integral equations to integral equation of the second kind, much more appropriate.
Abstract: Aims to solve Fredholm and Volterra non‐linear integral equations of the first kind. Uses the Adomian method, but since these equations are not under the canonical form u‐Nu = f, proposes some transformations for reducing the integral equations to integral equations of the second kind, much more appropriate. Uses a perturbation method for Fredholm equations. Concerning Volterra equations, uses a differentiation of the original equation, under sufficient regularity conditions, for obtaining a canonical form of Adomian.
24 citations
TL;DR: An overview of expert systems technology is presented and specifically addresses their use in a critical domain ‐ life support systems.
Abstract: Knowledge‐based and expert systems are quickly becoming an important component of knowledge organizations, enterprise knowledge management, and core competences. They are being used in various applications ranging from usage in the US White House to chemical plants worldwide. Presents an overview of expert systems technology and then specifically addresses their use in a critical domain ‐ life support systems.
21 citations
TL;DR: Any useful EEG‐intelligence concept must go beyond vague and general ideas such as ”neural efficiency” or “neural transmission errors” to explain how EEG differences relate to differences in brain function that can account for the main facts recorded in the intelligence literature.
Abstract: Considers the thesis that intelligence differences and EEG‐intelligence correlations can both be explained in terms of differences in the frequency of neural transmission errors. Considers an alternative theory which holds that intelligence variance and correlated EEG variance are both caused by variation of cerebral arousability. Refers to technical and methodological problems that bedevil the EEG‐intelligence literature and measurement difficulties that have arisen through lack of adequate concepts. Concludes that the principal measurement problems derive from failure to appreciate the important distinction that must be made between “cerebral arousal” and “cerebral arousability”; and that any useful EEG‐intelligence concept must go beyond vague and general ideas such as “neural efficiency” or “neural transmission errors” to explain how EEG differences relate to differences in brain function that can account for the main facts recorded in the intelligence literature.
17 citations
TL;DR: System entropy analysis (SEA), as presented here, is a second‐order, meta‐analytic tool which analyses each approach in terms of its major concepts, its basic units of analysis, its definition and measurement of entropy, and its specification of microstates and macrostates.
Abstract: A number of entropy models of social systems have been developed recently. Unfortunately, the complementarity of these approaches remains largely unanalysed, due to terminological and conceptual differences among them. There is an urgent need for a meta‐theoretical framework that will facilitate the analysis and comparison of all social entropy models. System entropy analysis (SEA), as presented here, is designed to fill this need. It is a second‐order, meta‐analytic tool which analyses each approach in terms of its major concepts, its basic units of analysis, its definition and measurement of entropy, and its specification of microstates and macrostates. First discusses the need for SEA, and then specifies its structure. Concludes with an application of SEA to the comparison and integration of three entropy approaches: synergetics, complexity theory and social entropy theory (SET).
17 citations
TL;DR: Second‐order cybernetics offers a theoretical framework that can shed light on institutional practices which lead to inadvertent pathologies of communication and help unpack them in a way that is “politically” neutral.
Abstract: Using the framework of second‐order cybernetics, explores the institutional practices which lead to inadvertent pathologies of communication. As an example, a certain university regularly carries out large‐scale surveys of student attitudes towards its courses. Three interested parties are the researchers, senior management concerned with quality, and faculty members who produce the courses. All agree the surveys should be carried out, but there are no guarantees that the survey findings are appropriately interpreted and acted on. This kind of scenario is common in large institutions. Second‐order cybernetics offers a theoretical framework that can shed light on these communicative practices and help unpack them in a way that is “politically” neutral. It can also help foster reflective practice in the spirit of action research and “action learning”. Presents case histories of pathologies and gives an example of how pathologies of communication may prevent relevant research being undertaken.
17 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors discuss the type of causal processes which exist in social systems and how patterns in social system can be revealed, and present four causal processes: historical, functional, cybernetic and pattern.
Abstract: Aims to facilitate the work of researchers studying problems/phenomena in social systems from a systemic point of view. Discusses the type of causal processes which exist in social systems and how patterns in social systems can be revealed. Presents four causal processes: historical, functional, cybernetic and pattern. Typologizes pattern processes into the four categories of empirical generalizations, models, theories and social laws. Elaborates on the relationship between models and theories relative to systemic research strategy.
TL;DR: In this paper, the constructions of a general system on its object set and on its set of fundamental objects are discussed, and the methodological implications of these constructions are discussed.
Abstract: Gives the constructions of a general system on its object set and on its set of fundamental objects. Discusses some methodological implications of the constructions. Lists several examples to show that human sense organs are limited in the comprehension of the surrounding nature.
TL;DR: In this article, an alternative approach which explores a likely integration of autopoietic systems theory, agent-based models and network analysis is presented. But the relevance of this debate to the study of social dynamics has been reduced by a strong foundational bias and a lack of a proper view of individual agency.
Abstract: By reviewing the ongoing debate on “community” within the social sciences, highlights major inconsistencies in the standard definitions, as well as in their operationalization in empirical social research. The relevance of this debate to the study of social dynamics has been reduced by a strong foundational bias and a lack of a proper view of individual agency. Notions of space and time, as well as social memory and culture, have been taken too much for granted. By constructivistically questioning these notions, suggests an alternative approach which explores a likely integration of autopoietic systems theory, agent‐based models and network analysis. Considers its implications for research methodology.
TL;DR: A conceptual model for the value system, consisting of wellbeing, needs and wishes, values, moral codes and action, is developed based on the philosophy developed by Bunge through his treatise on basic philosophy.
Abstract: Examines the subject “How can we study value systems from a systemic angle of incidence?”, based on the philosophy developed by Bunge through his treatise on basic philosophy. Develops a conceptual model for the value system, consisting of the following entities: wellbeing, needs and wishes, values, moral codes and action. Discusses each element of the model from a systemic angle of incidence. The ethical norm expressed is referred to as systemic principle of balance and can be expressed in the following way: the wellbeing of those most subject to suffering in the social system should be given number one priority, despite the fact that wellbeing of the majority will deteriorate as a result of this priority.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors consider the light thrown on values by cybernetics, the systems science which deals with goal-directed behaviour, and suggest that higher level values influence the relevance and availability of options for choice.
Abstract: Considers the light thrown on values by cybernetics, the systems science which deals with goal‐directed behaviour. Values function as criteria which govern goals at various levels of organization. Higher level values influence the relevance and availability of options for choice. Purposive systems are enabled by negative feedback to liberate outputs, to some degree, from random or contingent factors, so that relative constancy of action towards goals can be maintained over time. Such relative freedom is vital for life, but depends on an enabling organization. Such an account points to possibilities for a more objective account of the nature and role of human values, with implications for epistemology, ethics and the philosophy of mind. Also suggests that, in a politically free society, the structure of authority must be a function of the needs and goals of the individuals within it.
TL;DR: The “fit” between observed and generated trajectories is an insufficient criterion to warrant decisions regarding acceptance or rejection of the model, and the theory behind it, and additional criteria have to be introduced in model‐testing methodology.
Abstract: In a computer simulation experiment, the sociocybernetic concepts of self‐referencing control, disturbances from the environment, goal‐oriented behaviour, and morphogenesis are subsequently included in a model. With this model, a large variety of trajectories with quite different behaviours can be generated by only minor changes of initials and coefficients, which leave the structure of the model fully intact. Shows that the same trajectory can be generated by models which have a completely different structure. Thus, the “fit” between observed and generated trajectories is an insufficient criterion to warrant decisions regarding acceptance or rejection of the model, and the theory behind it. Additional criteria have to be introduced in model‐testing methodology. The sociocybernetic concept of self‐referentiality even requires a radical change in this methodology.
TL;DR: A framework to summarize the most important aspects of research is formulated, and one instance is applied in a “practical” situation, the improvement of a social service.
Abstract: Various devices have been identified to support research as a way of improving on observations; those in the social sciences appearing to be less effective than those in the physical sciences. To make the former more effective, it often is tried to “involve” the user ‐ as a participant observer, as a co‐researcher, as a commissioner. A clarification of the multiplicity of such attempts seems in order. Formulates a framework to summarize the most important aspects of research. Explores instances of this framework with regard to their ability to include users. One instance is applied in a “practical” situation, the improvement of a social service. This instance distinguishes sharply between two kinds of users, each using a different language to promote transfer and interaction: users inside a collective and users outside that collective.
TL;DR: In this paper, the differences between systemic social research and conventional, non-systemic empirical research are discussed and the major stages, methodological decisions and results of an empirical project are discussed.
Abstract: Discusses the differences between systemic social research and conventional, non‐systemic empirical research. Outlines paradigmatically the major stages, methodological decisions and results of an empirical project. Focuses on intimate communication and AIDS prevention. Distinguishes four different intimate system types. These system types are shown to influence the risk management of an HIV infection. Sociocybernetic empirical research implies typically systemic approaches in the major phases of the research process: reframing; observing observations; selecting and distinguishing; and intervening indirectly.
TL;DR: In this paper, a theory of human creativity is built on the premisses of autopoietic systems theory in contrast to the classical representationist paradigm, where creativity is seen as an activity recurrently reproduced by couplings of specific states of moderate emotional arousal with "transitional" environments.
Abstract: Aims to build a theory of human creativity on the premisses of autopoietic systems theory (AST) in contrast to the classical representationist paradigm. Correspondingly, creativity is seen as an activity recurrently reproduced by couplings of specific states of moderate emotional arousal with “transitional” environments, i.e. “soft” social structures in which the world is permitted to be both subjective and objective; the archetype of these creative couplings can be found in the earliest “perfect environment” formed by the symbiotic infant‐mother relationship. Hypothesizes that these early states of synergy serve as centres of emotional gravity that are actively sought after by the mature creative person in his/her efforts to overcome splits of verbal space corresponding to schisms of cultural value and belief systems.
TL;DR: Develops in a concrete way the thought of pansystems philosophy about the so‐called five‐mutual ideas of pans system (5‐DSPP), and investigates certain real interconnections of the borderline of information systems and related topological boundary.
Abstract: Develops in a concrete way the thought of pansystems philosophy about the so‐called five‐mutual ideas of pansystems (5‐DSPP), and investigates certain real interconnections of the borderline of information systems and related topological boundary.
TL;DR: In fact, it does not seem possible to define operationally the concept of organizational efficiency since only a systemic and sociocybernetic conception of the organization could provide in principle the subconcepts of globality, inputs, outputs, transformation and feedback so absolutely indispensable for expressing this definition in terms of the relation between the means used (X) and the ends achieved (Y). Even the outputs "Y" and the inputs "X" have to be previously viewed from a globalizing systemic angle, which means grasping the needs and satisfaction of the system from its point of view as mentioned in this paper
Abstract: It seems that sociology (the science of society) has not until now seriously undertaken the operational definition of the concept of “organizational efficiency” or “social performance”. The reason for this huge and inexplicable oversight might be that sociology does not use as a routine the systemic and sociocybernetic approaches. In fact, it does not seem possible to define operationally the concept of organizational efficiency since only a systemic and sociocybernetic conception of the organization could provide in principle the subconcepts of globality, inputs, outputs, transformation and feedback so absolutely indispensable for expressing this definition in terms of the relation between the means used (X) and the ends achieved (Y). Even the outputs “Y” and the inputs “X” have to be previously viewed from a globalizing systemic angle, which means grasping the needs and satisfaction of the system from its point of view.
TL;DR: In this paper, the Fisher model is used to solve the partial differential equation and the system of differential equations, and a new relationship for calculating Adomian polynomials is proposed.
Abstract: Uses the decomposition method for solving a diffusion equation. The partial differential equation is reduced to a differential system. Uses a new relationship for calculating Adomian polynomials and for solving the system of differential equations. Applies the results obtained to the Fisher model and makes a comparison with published work.
TL;DR: A sociocybernetic standard variable number (SC‐SVN) is proposed to keep track of socio‐technical systems in which a qualitative approach is more appropriate than a quantitative one, via three case studies from IT in health care.
Abstract: A method peculiar to sociocybernetics as a paradigm is dynamic simulation. In the case of information technological (IT) systems, which are socio‐technical systems, a qualitative (conceptual, cognitive) approach is more appropriate than a quantitative one. Already intermediate results of conceptual work aimed at a computer model have been found useful. Illustrates this via three case studies from IT in health care, in which the sociocybernetic problem‐functionalist conceptual (SPC) modelling technique was used. Two studies are from the “EUROCARDS Concerted Action on Extending the Use of Patient Data Cards”; the third concerns the development of health information systems in the Aral Basin. In all cases, a wide variety of information and materials was needed for modelling. To keep track of this, proposes a sociocybernetic standard variable number (SC‐SVN).
TL;DR: In this article, the equivalence between the sociological notion of reflexivity and the idea of self-reference is emphasized, which epistemologically and structurally distinguish those complex systems where humans participate as elements.
Abstract: Upholds the equivalence between the sociological notion of reflexivity and the idea of self‐reference, which epistemologically and structurally distinguish those complex systems where humans participate as elements. Once there is a conceptual bridge between sociology and cybernetics, the reflexivity processes are analysed, and the expression feed‐before is proposed for the corresponding circuits, as they operate after the input, but before the output characteristic of the other complex systems is produced. After distinguishing between micro‐ and macro‐reflexivity, studies mutual connections and submits graphic designs of both types of circuit. Also briefly analyses the tempo of social reflexivity, while deducing the consequences regarding the predictability of social dynamics.
TL;DR: Questions the relationship between information science, the theory of science, and ethics, and introduces the concept “The context of solution”, which couples this unit to moral/ethical consequence considerations, where the basis is local knowledge.
Abstract: Questions the relationship between information science, the theory of science, and ethics. Defines the differences between the views of the theory of science used in information science and introduces the concept “The context of solution”, in addition to the entities “The context of discovery” and “The context of justification”. These three contexts constitute what is thought should be normative for the research community. Finally couples this unit to moral/ethical consequence considerations, where the basis is local knowledge. Concludes with a model for the integration of science and ethics.
TL;DR: Current theories linking consciousness and quantum mechanics, taking a sceptical standpoint but inviting debate, make a strong case for some mechanism additional to the classical neural net, probably comprising microtubules as photonic waveguides.
Abstract: Continues an earlier discussion of the state of understanding of the brain, and the nature of the breakthrough that would warrant the designation “decade of the brain”. Discusses current theories linking consciousness and quantum mechanics, taking a sceptical standpoint but inviting debate. Acknowledges a strong case for some mechanism additional to the classical neural net, probably comprising microtubules as photonic waveguides.
TL;DR: A new method, based on general living systems theory and designed to be well structured and understandable to non‐specialists is proposed, which includes a complete working methodology with a bottom‐up approach which generally provides good knowledge of functional principles of the simulated system.
Abstract: Dynamic simulation as a tool to solve large scale complex problems has long been considered both highly abstract and elusive, especially by the users of the result. Proposes a new method, based on general living systems theory and designed to be well structured and understandable to non‐specialists. It includes a complete working methodology with a bottom‐up approach which generally provides good knowledge of functional principles of the simulated system. An application of the proposed method to the Swedish search and rescue organization showed that critical factors influencing system efficiency can be discovered and analysed.
TL;DR: In this paper, a combinatorial study of the elementary paths in the cubic lattice Z3 is presented, where the main result consists of illustrating a construction of an elementary path called an associated elementary path, which allows the calculation of paths of given length.
Abstract: Determining the possible configurations number of a native protein involves a combinatorial study of the elementary paths in the cubic lattice Z3 . The main result consists of illustrating a construction of an elementary path called an associated elementary path. This construction allows the calculation of paths of given length.
TL;DR: In this paper, a reducing transformation is introduced which allows expression of n variables in function of a single one, which allows densification of the space Rn and the quality of the densification can be estimated.
Abstract: Introduces new reducing transformation which allows expression of n variables in function of a single one. This allows densification of the space Rn and the quality of the densification can be estimated. Applications to global optimization problems lead to the optimization of one variable function and the time of calculation for obtaining a global optimum can be estimated.
TL;DR: The theory of autopoietic social systems (Luhmann) is used as an explanatory framework for such historico-sociological puzzles as the origins of social crisis, totalitarianism, the appearance of the crowd, the mass extermination of internal enemies (scapegoats), and the modern emergence of sociology itself as mentioned in this paper.
Abstract: The theory of autopoietic social systems (Luhmann) is used as an explanatory framework for such historico‐sociological puzzles as the origins of social crisis, totalitarianism, the appearance of the crowd, the mass extermination of internal enemies (scapegoats), and the modern emergence of sociology itself. All of these seemingly incompatible phenomena have a connection with one particular emotion, namely, alienation, which is utilized as an integrative concept. On the basis of an elaboration of the concept of systems medium, social crisis is analysed as being solicited by a reduced availability of whatever systemic medium is most important in a given society.