Nonmonotonic Reasoning

Nonmonotonic reasoning is a type of logical thinking where the addition of new information can change previous conclusions. Unlike traditional reasoning, where conclusions are fixed once established, nonmonotonic reasoning allows for flexibility, reflecting how humans naturally think. For example, if we learn that a specific bird, previously assumed to fly, is actually a penguin, we may revise our conclusion about that bird’s ability to fly. This approach is crucial in fields like artificial intelligence and philosophy, as it helps in making decisions based on incomplete or evolving information.