Bringing Aristotle into the 20th century: Definition-oriented concept analysis in a terminological knowledge base.

Abstract

This thesis develops and tests a definition-oriented approach to concept analysis. In this approach, a computerized knowledge management system called CODE is used to help the terminologist carry out concept analysis specifically aimed at constructing intensional (Aristotelian) definitions for a terminological knowledge base (TKB). The approach is developed by first exploring what the literature has to say about the intensional terminological definition (ITD) as a process, a product, and a tool. The primary conclusion that arises from this exploration is that ITDs for co-concepts must be consistent in content and form, and must clearly indicate the place of their respective concepts in the concept system. Second, this thesis looks at how a specific feature of the CODE system, the Characteristic Comparison Matrix (CCM), can be enhanced to facilitate definition-oriented concept analysis. The result is a powerful, flexible feature that aids the terminologist in recording consistent characteristics and selecting characteristics for definition construction. Third, this thesis proposes enhancements to an existing general approach to concept analysis. These enhancements are based on definition research, knowledge of CODE, and introspection, supported by previous experience performing general concept analysis with the COGNITERM Project. The result is an approach which allows the terminologist to carry out concept analysis in a methodical manner, using CODE to create good, consistent ITDs for a TKB. This approach is tested by creating a TKB for the subject field of lasers (concentrating on 16 concepts), complete with ITDs. The approach works quite well, although it requires some minor modifications. The definitions are consistent and contain only that information necessary to distinguish co-concepts from one another and to indicate their place within a concept system. Although CODE is helpful in facilitating definition-oriented concept analysis, some enhancements to the technology would make it even more useful.