[mod.ai] Monotonic Reasoning

SHAFFER%SCOVCB.DECnet@GE-CRD.ARPA (10/28/86)

	I am somewhat new to AI and I am confused about the
	definition of "non-monotonic" reasoning, as in the
	documentation in Inference's ART system.  It say that
	features allow for non-monotonic reasoning, but does
	not say what that type of reasoning is, or how it
	differs from monotonic reasoning, if there is such a
	thing.



			Earl Shaffer
			GE - VFSC
			Po box 8555
			Phila , Pa 19101


  [Monotonic reasoning is a process of logical inference using only
  true axioms or statements.  Nonmonotonic reasoning uses statements
  believed to be true, but which may later prove to be false.  It is
  therefore necessary to keep track of all chains of support for each
  conclusion so that the conclusion can be revoked if its basis
  statements are revoked.  Other names for nonmonotonic reasoning are
  default reasoning and truth maintenance.  -- KIL]