The Bayesian logic of frequency-based conjunction fallacies

An inductive, pattern-sensitive Bayesian logic (BL) is proposed as a normative and descriptive model for probability judgments about hypotheses involving probabilistic logical connectives. The model explains a specific class of frequency-based conjunction fallacies (CFs). It is suggested that the pa...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Sydow, Momme von (Author)
Format: Article (Journal)
Language:English
Published: 2 March 2011
In: Journal of mathematical psychology
Year: 2011, Volume: 55, Issue: 2, Pages: 119-139
ISSN:0022-2496
DOI:10.1016/j.jmp.2010.12.001
Online Access:Verlag, lizenzpflichtig, Volltext: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmp.2010.12.001
Verlag, lizenzpflichtig, Volltext: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022249610001422
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Author Notes:Momme von Sydow
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Summary:An inductive, pattern-sensitive Bayesian logic (BL) is proposed as a normative and descriptive model for probability judgments about hypotheses involving probabilistic logical connectives. The model explains a specific class of frequency-based conjunction fallacies (CFs). It is suggested that the pattern probabilities calculated by BL may serve as a criterion of noisy-logical predication, resolving some paradoxes of predication. The model is developed for frequency information in 2×2 contingency tables. According to standard probability theory, a violation of the conjunction rule, P(A)≥P(A∧B) (e.g., P(ravens are black) ≥ P(ravens are black AND they can fly)), is always a fallacy. A frequentist interpretation of probability has exculpated participants from committing CFs when one is concerned with single events. Here a pattern-based Bayesian interpretation of probabilities of (noisy) dyadic logical predications is elaborated, predicting frequency-based but rational ‘CFs’. BL formalizes the probabilities of logical patterns, integrating over noise levels. BL, for instance, predicts double CFs, differential sample-size effects, and pattern sensitivity. Three experiments provide a first corroboration that BL is also an adequate empirical model to predict logical probability judgments based on 2×2 contingency tables. BL may shed light on the more general rationality debate.
Item Description:Gesehen am 16.12.2022
Physical Description:Online Resource
ISSN:0022-2496
DOI:10.1016/j.jmp.2010.12.001