Extensive Questions

Abstract

Olsson and his collaborators have proposed an extension of Belief Revision Theory where an epistemic state is modeled as a triple $S=\langle{\underline{K},E,\underline{A}}\rangle$, where $\underline{A}$ is a research agenda, i.e. a set of research questions. Contraction and expansion apply to states, and affect the agenda. We propose an alternative characterization of the problem of agenda updating, where research questions are viewed as blueprints for research strategies. We offer a unified solution to this problem, and prove it equivalent to Olsson’s own. We conclude arguing that: (i) our solution makes the idea of ‘minimal change’ in questions and agendas clearer; (ii) can be extended in ways the original theory was not, and may help better realize the aims this theory was proposed for; (iii) unveils some limitations of the initial approach, yet opening a way to overcome them.