The logic theory machine--A complex information processing system

TLDR

The paper focuses on specifying a system for human problem‑solving activity, rather than its computer implementation. The authors present the logic theory machine, a system that discovers proofs in symbolic logic, as part of a broader effort to understand complex information‑processing systems through specification and synthesis. The logic theory machine is specified in a formal pseudo‑code language and relies on heuristic methods rather than systematic algorithms to discover proofs.

Abstract

In this paper we describe a complex information processing system, which we call the logic theory machine, that is capable of discovering proofs for theorems in symbolic logic. This system, in contrast to the systematic algorithms that are ordinarily employed in computation, relies heavily on heuristic methods similar to those that have been observed in . human problem solving activity. The specification is written in a formal language, of the nature of a pseudo-code, that is suitable for coding for digital computers. However, the present paper is concerned exclusively with specification of the system, and not with its realization in a computer. The logic theory machine is part of a program of research to understand complex information processing systems by specifying and synthesizing a substantial variety of such systems for empirical study.