A Defeasible Deontic Calculus for Resolving Norm Conflicts

TL;DR

This paper introduces a defeasible deontic calculus that effectively detects and resolves conflicting norms in multi-agent systems, addressing the dynamic and evolving nature of social norms.

Contribution

It presents a novel axiomatization that combines deontic logic with defeasible reasoning to handle norm conflicts and inheritance.

Findings

Proves the calculus resolves norm conflicts reliably.

Identifies a common resolution strategy as a red herring.

Provides a formal framework for dynamic norm management.

Abstract

When deciding how to act, we must consider other agents' norms and values. However, our norms are ever-evolving. We often add exceptions or change our minds, and thus norms can conflict over time. Therefore, to maintain an accurate mental model of other's norms, and thus to avoid social friction, such conflicts must be detected and resolved quickly. Formalizing this process has been the focus of various deontic logics and normative multi-agent systems. We aim to bridge the gap between these two fields here. We contribute a defeasible deontic calculus with inheritance and prove that it resolves norm conflicts. Through this analysis, we also reveal a common resolution strategy as a red herring. This paper thus contributes a theoretically justified axiomatization of norm conflict detection and resolution.