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A computational model of selection by consequences: log survivor plots.
Saule Kulubekova1, J J McDowell
1Department of Psychology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States. skulube@emory.edu
Behavioural Processes
|February 5, 2008
Summary
This study validates a computational model of operant behavior by comparing virtual organism response patterns to live organisms. Results show consistent patterns, supporting the model's account of selection by consequences.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral science
- Computational psychology
- Animal behavior
Background:
- The principle of selection by consequences explains operant behavior.
- McDowell (2004) developed a computational model simulating this principle.
- Further validation is needed at the molecular level.
Purpose of the Study:
- To validate McDowell's computational model.
- To compare virtual organism behavior to live organisms.
- To examine inter-response time (IRT) distributions.
Main Methods:
- A computational model of a virtual organism was used.
- Selection, reproduction, and mutation were simulated over generations.
- Virtual organism IRT distributions (log survivor plots) were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Log survivor plots showed a defined bend at low reinforcement rates.
- The "broken-stick" feature was absent in virtual organism plots.
- Patterns generally aligned with data from live pigeons.
Conclusions:
- Virtual organism log survivor plots showed consistency with live organism data.
- This supports the computational model as a viable account of operant behavior.
- The model effectively simulates selection by consequences.
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