Adversarial Problem Solving: Modeling an Opponent Using Explanatory Coherence

In adversarial problem solving (APS), one must anticipate, understand and counteract the actions of an opponent, particularly in cases involving deception.

Abstract

In adversarial problem solving (APS), one must anticipate, understand and counteract the actions of an opponent. Military strategy, business, and game playing all require an agent to construct a model of an opponent that includes the opponent's model of the agent. The cognitive mechanisms required for such modeling include deduction, analogy, inductive generalization, and the formation and evaluation of explanatory hypotheses. Explanatory coherence theory captures part of what is involved in APS, particularly in cases involving deception.