Form and Substance: Knowledge Representation by Thesauri

Abstract

Starting from general observations on form and substance, we take a closer look at knowledge representation and how this field has been treated in Artificial Intelligence research. We argue for directing more attention to the ‘substance’ of knowledge and find similar views expressed in Lenat and Guha’s (Building Large Knowledge-Based Systems. Reading, MA: Addison-Wesley, 1989). Contrary to their view, however, we argue for not dismissing prior work like research concerning thesauri, and stress the importance of an interdisciplinary and intercultural approach in general. We also note some caveats and observations concerning the distinction between representing the world and its representation by means of language.

From Applied Artificial Intelligence, 1993, Vol. 7, Taylor and Francis, Inc., Washington, “The Hidden Treasure” by Ernst Buchberger. Reproduction with permission. This paper grew out of a talk I gave at the “Workshop on Knowledge Representation, Thesaurus, and Classification” in Bonn in May 1990. I adapted it slightly, but wanting to keep it as authentical as possible, in some parts the “oral presentation” style will glimmer through. I hope you, dear reader, will not be distracted too much by that feature.