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Studies in the mathematical biophysics of discrimination and conditioning I

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Abstract

A mechanism with properties of discrimination and conditioning is discussed mathematically with reference to special cases in the problem of error elimination: elimination of the longer of two paths to a goal, elimination of a blind as well as a return alley, and Lashley's jumping problem. For each case equations are derived which are qualitatively correct as far as was determined. Several qualitative deductions are made and these are substantiated by data available. In principle, the theory makes it possible to predict, for any trial, the number of errors at any junction of a maze provided certain experimental conditions are satisfied, and if a sufficient number of experimental values are given to determine the parameters of the system.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. The University of Chicago, Chicago, USA

    H. D. Landahl

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  1. H. D. Landahl
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Landahl, H.D. Studies in the mathematical biophysics of discrimination and conditioning I. Bulletin of Mathematical Biophysics 3, 13–26 (1941). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02478103

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02478103

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