A Causal Model of Intentionality Judgment Journal Article uri icon

Overview

abstract

  • We propose a causal model theory to explain asymmetries in judgments of the intentionality of a foreseen side‐effect that is either negative or positive (Knobe, 2003). The theory is implemented as a Bayesian network relating types of mental states, actions, and consequences that integrates previous hypotheses. It appeals to two inferential routes to judgment about the intentionality of someone else's action: bottom‐up from action to desire and top‐down from character and disposition. Support for the theory comes from three experiments that test the prediction that bottom‐up inference should occur only when the actor's primary objective is known. The model fits intentionality judgments reasonably well with no free parameters.

publication date

  • April 1, 2012

has restriction

  • closed

Date in CU Experts

  • June 13, 2014 1:54 AM

Full Author List

  • SLOMAN SA; FERNBACH PM; EWING S

author count

  • 3

Other Profiles

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

  • 0268-1064

Electronic International Standard Serial Number (EISSN)

  • 1468-0017

Additional Document Info

start page

  • 154

end page

  • 180

volume

  • 27

issue

  • 2