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Probabilistic rule-based argumentation for norm-governed learning agents

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Abstract

This paper proposes an approach to investigate norm-governed learning agents which combines a logic-based formalism with an equation-based counterpart. This dual formalism enables us to describe the reasoning of such agents and their interactions using argumentation, and, at the same time, to capture systemic features using equations. The approach is applied to norm emergence and internalisation in systems of learning agents. The logical formalism is rooted into a probabilistic defeasible logic instantiating Dung’s argumentation framework. Rules of this logic are attached with probabilities to describe the agents’ minds and behaviours as well as uncertain environments. Then, the equation-based model for reinforcement learning, defined over this probability distribution, allows agents to adapt to their environment and self-organise.

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Notes

  1. As we shall see in a moment, obj is used to denote those factual statements that are objectively true and so independent from the agents’ perspective.

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Acknowledgments

This paper extends and revises some preliminary work of Riveret et al. (2012). We would like to thank the anonymous reviewers of DEON 2012 for their comments. Our gratitude goes to Giulia Andrighetto and Mario Paolucci for their valuable suggestions. Part of this work has been carried out in the scope of the EC co-funded project SMART (FP7-287583).

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Correspondence to Giovanni Sartor.

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Riveret, R., Rotolo, A. & Sartor, G. Probabilistic rule-based argumentation for norm-governed learning agents. Artif Intell Law 20, 383–420 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10506-012-9134-7

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