Non-monotonic Logic

Abstract

Since the time of Aristotle, logic has developed as a formalism for modelling the correct construction of arguments which demonstrate that a conclusion necessarily follows from a set of premises. It was perhaps in kee** with the Greek obsession with absolutes that there was to be no uncertainty or doubt associated with these arguments. The arguments were used to establish facts; they were deductive proofs. Indeed Aristotle held that deductive proof was the sole basis for establishing facts in mathematics.

Life is the art of drawing sufficient conclusions from insufficient premises.

(Samuel Butler)