The Formalism of Probability Theory in IR: A Foundation or an Encumbrance?
Conference paper
Abstract
Probabilistic theories of retrieval bring to bear on the information search problem a high degree of theoretical coherence and deductive power. In principle, this power ought to be an invaluable asset. In practice, it has turned out to be a mixed blessing. The question considered here is whether the trappings of the probabilistic formalism strengthen or encumber IR research on balance.
Keywords
Retrieval Status Probability Ranking Ranking Rule Retrieval Rule Output Ranking
These keywords were added by machine and not by the authors. This process is experimental and the keywords may be updated as the learning algorithm improves.
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© Springer-Verlag London Limited 1994