A Model-Theoretic Semantics for Defeasible Logic

TL;DR

This paper introduces a model-theoretic semantics for defeasible logic, establishing a formal foundation that enhances understanding and application of this efficient reasoning system.

Contribution

It provides the first model-theoretic semantics for defeasible logic, demonstrating soundness and completeness, and outlines extensions to other defeasible logics.

Findings

Logic is sound and complete with respect to the new semantics

Framework extends to various defeasible logics

Establishes a formal model-theoretic foundation

Abstract

Defeasible logic is an efficient logic for defeasible reasoning. It is defined through a proof theory and, until now, has had no model theory. In this paper a model-theoretic semantics is given for defeasible logic. The logic is sound and complete with respect to the semantics. We also briefly outline how this approach extends to a wide range of defeasible logics.