Optimality theory and other theories of the mind : a system architecture comparison

Abstract

In this thesis Optimality Theory is described in as non-linguistic terms as possible with the goal of making it possible to compare it to other theories of the mind, especially with regards to GEN, CON and EVAL. GEN is the generator of output candidates, CON are the available constraints and EVAL is a structure that evaluates the constraints based on some criteria. Connectionism, Motivational Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, Cognitive Neuropsychology and various theories of perception are presented in an equal manner. These theories are then compared to Optimality Theory to see if we can find commonalities. These commonalities are then presented. Structures similar to GEN, CON and EVAL can be found in several of the psychological theories. The similarity between Optimality Theory and Motivational Psychology is especially striking, taking into consideration the difference between their fields of study.