Cognitive emulation in expert system design

Abstract

SummaryCognitive emulation is an expert system design strategy which attempts to model system performance on human (expert) thinking. Arguments for and against cognitive emulation are reviewed. A major conclusion is that a significant degree of cognitive emulation is an inherent feature of design, but that an unselective application of the strategy is both unrealistic and undesirable. Pragmatic considerations which limit or facilitate the viability of a cognitive emulation approach are discussed. Particular attention is given to the conflict between cognitive emulation and established knowledge engineering objectives, detailed over 12 typical expert system features. The paper suggests circumstances in which a strategy of cognitive emulation is useful.