Scripts, Plans, Goals, and Understanding: An Inquiry Into Human Knowledge Structures

by Roger C. Schank, Robert P. Abelson

First Published in 1977. In the summer of 1971, there was a workshop in an ill-defined field at the intersection of psychology, artificial intelligence, and linguistics. The fifteen participants were in various ways interested in the representation of large systems of knowledge (or beliefs) based upon an understanding process operating upon information expressed in natural language. This book reflects a convergence of interests at the intersection of psychology and artificial intelligence. What is the nature of knowledge and how is this knowledge used? These questions lie at the core of both psychology and artificial intelligence.

Genres: Psychology, Artificial Intelligence

256 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 1977

Reviews

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating look at beginning efforts to codify scripts, plans, and goals. Ah, will humans ever consistently be this predictable? From my 2024 perspective, it’s easy to see the cultural assumptions built into these mental models. A decidedly good and necessary step into this field.

[Gabe Labadie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing primer to how one might structure in-depth character AI. Comprehensive enough to help build your own systems, while not being too nitty-gritty as to be inflexible or a slog.