Logic-Based Representations
Logic serves as the backbone of knowledge representation (KR) in AI, offering a structured framework for encoding knowledge and making inferences. Two key components of KR are representation, which involves encoding information about the world, and reasoning, which is the process of drawing conclusions from this information.
Why Use Logic?
Logic exists due to its formal and mathematical nature, making it suitable for representing both declarative knowledge and inference. It allows for rigorous proofs and deductions, providing clarity in ambiguous situations.
Types of Logic in AI
- Propositional Logic: This simplest form of logic encodes facts as being either true or false, using atomic propositions combined with logical connectives.
- First-Order Logic (Predicate Logic): An extension of propositional logic, FOL includes variables, quantifiers (universal and existential), and predicates for more complex relationships.
- Modal Logic: This type incorporates modalities like necessity and possibility, allowing deeper reasoning about statements.
- Temporal Logic: It enables representation and reasoning about events over time.
Logic-based representations are essential for developing systems like expert systems and rule-based engines that require consistency, reliability, and explainability.