this is a book on semantic information processing, edited by marvin minsky. the book includes an introduction by marvin minsky, followed by various chapters on different aspects of artificial intelligence and semantic processing. the first chapter provides an overview of artificial intelligence, its history, and key concepts such as formality, generality, learning, and knowledge. it also discusses semantic information retrieval, natural language processing, and the challenges of mechanizing large models. chapter 2 presents a computer program for semantic information retrieval, sir, developed by bertram raphael. it covers the system's design, its treatment of natural language, and its formalization. chapter 3 discusses natural language input for a computer problem-solving system, focusing on semantic generation, programming formalisms, and the transformation of english into a deductive model. chapter 4 explores semantic memory, focusing on its role in language comprehension and its implications for linguistic theory. chapter 5 presents a program for solving geometric-analogy intelligence test questions, detailing the solution process and results. chapter 6 describes a deductive question-answering system, covering the process of deduction, avoiding endless deduction, and efficiency. chapter 7 discusses programs with common sense, focusing on the advice taker and the relationship between situation, actions, and causal laws. chapter 8 examines descriptive languages and problem solving, emphasizing the need for analysis. chapter 9 explores the relationship between matter, mind, and models, discussing knowledge, models of models, and the concept of dualism. the book concludes with subject and name indexes. the content covers a wide range of topics in artificial intelligence, semantic processing, and cognitive science.this is a book on semantic information processing, edited by marvin minsky. the book includes an introduction by marvin minsky, followed by various chapters on different aspects of artificial intelligence and semantic processing. the first chapter provides an overview of artificial intelligence, its history, and key concepts such as formality, generality, learning, and knowledge. it also discusses semantic information retrieval, natural language processing, and the challenges of mechanizing large models. chapter 2 presents a computer program for semantic information retrieval, sir, developed by bertram raphael. it covers the system's design, its treatment of natural language, and its formalization. chapter 3 discusses natural language input for a computer problem-solving system, focusing on semantic generation, programming formalisms, and the transformation of english into a deductive model. chapter 4 explores semantic memory, focusing on its role in language comprehension and its implications for linguistic theory. chapter 5 presents a program for solving geometric-analogy intelligence test questions, detailing the solution process and results. chapter 6 describes a deductive question-answering system, covering the process of deduction, avoiding endless deduction, and efficiency. chapter 7 discusses programs with common sense, focusing on the advice taker and the relationship between situation, actions, and causal laws. chapter 8 examines descriptive languages and problem solving, emphasizing the need for analysis. chapter 9 explores the relationship between matter, mind, and models, discussing knowledge, models of models, and the concept of dualism. the book concludes with subject and name indexes. the content covers a wide range of topics in artificial intelligence, semantic processing, and cognitive science.