Experiments with a theorem-utilizing program
Larry E. Travis · 1964
There are a large number of difficult intellectual tasks which consist of synthesizing a partial ordering. To program a computer we must synthesize a sequence of computer instructions; one way of constructing a logical derivation is by synthesizing a sequence of inference-rule applications which transform given premises into desired conclusion; one way of choosing among alternative moves in a game is by synthesizing and evaluating trees of possibly ensuing moves. Can we program a computer to perform such tasks? Can we program a computer to perform such tasks expertly, i.e., well enough that it can by itself surpass a skilled human being in the performance of such tasks?