The Secrets of Causality
F.J. Rietman · 1993
In this paper a model for a relational calculus for distributed program design is introduced. Here, the distributed programs are compositions of so-called processes. The construction of the model is guided by desired properties for several forms of composition of processes, such as sequential composition and feedback. Functionality (determinism) and totality of processes are defined. After the observation that functionality and totality are not preserved by the feedback operator the class of causal processes is introduced. It is shown that causality guarantees the preservation by the feedback of functionality and totality.