Symbol, in a most general systemic sense, is a graphical, written, vocal or physical object which represents another, usually more complex, physical or abstract object, or an object property.

- Use simple symbols improved dramatically the communication, i.e. exchange of information/tasks/commands  between humans.

A symbolic representation has two meanings:

1) is a representation of an object, event or property  using a predefined symbol system,

2) refers to a metaphoric representation of an object.

A sub-symbolic representation is a representation of the properties of a dynamic system/object by its model which behaviour is similar or the same (with pre-assumed accuracy) as the represented system.

For example, in AI, neural networks are used for the sub-symbolic representation of some properties of the human brain (proposed by Paul Smolensky).

General remarks: The TOGA terminological/ontological definition-making  follows the basic TOGA paradigms.

go to MKEM server  home page             go back to  TOGA  Meta-theory

© 2005, Adam  Maria Gadomski.  ENEA.