Granularity

Abstract

This paper presents a framework for a theory of granular· ity, which is seen as a means of constructing simple theories out of more complex ones. A transitive indistinguishability relation can be defined by means of a set of relevant pred· icates, allowing simplification of a theory of complex phe· nomena into computationally tractable local theories, or granularities. Nontransitive indistinguishability relations can be characterized in terms of relevant partial predi· cates, and idealization allows simplification into tractable local theories. Various local theories must be linked with each other by means of articulation axioms, to allow shifts of perspective. Such a treatment of granularity must be built into the very foundation of the reasoning processes of intelligent agents in a complex world.