Abstract
Transitive inference is the ability, given that A >B and B >C, to infer that A >C. Pigeons, rats, chimpanzees, squirrel monkeys, and humans as young as 4 years have all been shown capable of this. In this paper, simple associative learning models are explored as accounts of nonverbal transitive inference performance. A Bush-Mosteller-based model can account for transitive inference under limited conditions. A Rescorla-Wagner-based model can account for transitive inference under all conditions in the literature, but cannot account for some additional nontransitive tests. A final configural model can also account for these nontransitive data. The ability of this model to account for transitive inference formation in humans is also considered.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 207-217 |
Number of pages | 11 |
Journal | Animal Learning & Behavior |
Volume | 23 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jun 1995 |
Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Neuropsychology and Physiological Psychology
- Experimental and Cognitive Psychology
- Animal Science and Zoology
- General Psychology
- Behavioral Neuroscience