Biology uses generative systems. Genomes consist of an alphabet of four nucleotides, which, together with certain rules for how to produce proteins and organize cells, generates an unlimited variety ...

Theoretical physicists use machine-learning algorithms to speed up difficult calculations and eliminate untenable theories—but could they transform what it means to make discoveries? Theoretical ...

This is a preview. Log in through your library . Abstract This paper introduces a colloquium on the scope and form of a theory of second language learning. It argues for the value of a general theory, ...

If you've ever wondered why some people succeed at learning new skills and knowledge while others fail to grasp basic concepts, you may want to find out more about learning theory. Theories of ...

Behaviorism was born from research done by Ivan Pavlov in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Pavlov’s research into animal digestion led to the recognition that the animals that were being ...

Learning new languages is a natural instinct for children, and yet it becomes more difficult as we age. We might be at a disadvantage as adults, but with a few learning methods, you can still give ...

This article was published in Scientific American’s former blog network and reflects the views of the author, not necessarily those of Scientific American Noam Chomsky’s political views attract so ...