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You can't have your hypothesis and test it: The importance of utilities in theories of reasoning
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 29 March 2011
Abstract
Mercier and Sperber's (M&S's) theory of reasoning cannot predict reasoning in the absence of an argumentative context. Applying the theory to hypothesis testing behavior, I propose that hypothesis testing is often motivated by determining the true inference and that reasoning models should account for utilities (affected by various motives, including the wish to convince) of reasoning outcomes.
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Target article
You can't have your hypothesis and test it: The importance of utilities in theories of reasoning
Related commentaries (1)
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