A computational theory of selection by consequences applied to concurrent schedules
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 27, 2026

Exploring the Role of Deontic Reasoning and World Knowledge in Wason´s Selection Task
Published on: July 22, 2025
J J McDowell1, Marcia L Caron, Saule Kulubekova
1Department of Psychology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA. jack.mcdowell@emory.edu
Abstract:
Virtual organisms animated by a computational theory of selection by consequences responded on symmetrical and asymmetrical concurrent schedules of reinforcement. The theory instantiated Darwinian principles of selection, reproduction, and mutation such that a population of potential behaviors evolved under the selection pressure exerted by reinforcement from the environment. The virtual organisms' steady-state behavior was well described by the power function matching equation, and the parameters of the equation behaved in ways that were consistent with findings from experiments with live organisms. Together with previous research on single-alternative schedules (McDowell, 2004; McDowell & Caron, 2007) these results indicate that the equations of matching theory are emergent properties of the evolutionary dynamics of selection by consequences.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Reinforcement Schedules
Once a behavior is learned,...
Law of Effect
Edward Thorndike's foundational work involved studying learning in animals, particularly using puzzle boxes...
Timing and Consequences on Behavior
Humans, however, can respond to delayed reinforcers. We often make decisions between immediate small rewards and delayed larger rewards. This ability to delay gratification is a significant factor...
Types of Selection
Frequency-dependent Selection
Woodward–Hoffmann Selection Rules and Microscopic Reversibility

