1,314 research outputs found
Quantum Sampling Problems, BosonSampling and Quantum Supremacy
There is a large body of evidence for the potential of greater computational
power using information carriers that are quantum mechanical over those
governed by the laws of classical mechanics. But the question of the exact
nature of the power contributed by quantum mechanics remains only partially
answered. Furthermore, there exists doubt over the practicality of achieving a
large enough quantum computation that definitively demonstrates quantum
supremacy. Recently the study of computational problems that produce samples
from probability distributions has added to both our understanding of the power
of quantum algorithms and lowered the requirements for demonstration of fast
quantum algorithms. The proposed quantum sampling problems do not require a
quantum computer capable of universal operations and also permit physically
realistic errors in their operation. This is an encouraging step towards an
experimental demonstration of quantum algorithmic supremacy. In this paper, we
will review sampling problems and the arguments that have been used to deduce
when sampling problems are hard for classical computers to simulate. Two
classes of quantum sampling problems that demonstrate the supremacy of quantum
algorithms are BosonSampling and IQP Sampling. We will present the details of
these classes and recent experimental progress towards demonstrating quantum
supremacy in BosonSampling.Comment: Survey paper first submitted for publication in October 2016. 10
pages, 4 figures, 1 tabl
Two Outline Models of Science: AMS And HAMS
Two abstract and computational models of the long-term process of science are proposed: AMS and HAMS. An outline specification of each model is given and the relationship between them explained. AMS takes an Olympian (\"artificial world\") view of science and its processes. HAMS is simpler and relatively more abstract and comprises only a small set of core processes. A first implementation of HAMS is described. How AMS and HAMS might be validated and used in experimental investigations is considered including problems that might arise. Further work is proposed. A brief coda concerns a related model of science formulated from an idealist rather than a materialist perspective.Computational Models of Science, Individual-Based Modelling, Scientific Method, Belief Systems, Belief Verification, Idealism
Robot Consciousness: Physics and Metaphysics Here and Abroad
Interest has been renewed in the study of consciousness, both theoretical and applied, following developments in 20th and early 21st-century logic, metamathematics, computer science, and the brain sciences. In this evolving narrative, I explore several theoretical questions about the types of artificial intelligence and offer several conjectures about how they affect possible future developments in this exceptionally transformative field of research. I also address the practical significance of the advances in artificial intelligence in view of the cautions issued by prominent scientists, politicians, and ethicists about the possible dangers of such sufficiently advanced general intelligence, including by implication the search for extraterrestrial intelligence
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An Empirical Study of the Effectiveness of 'Forcing Diversity' Based on a Large Population of Diverse Programs
Use of diverse software components is a viable defence against common-mode failures in redundant softwarebased systems. Various forms of "Diversity-Seeking Decisions" (āDSDsā) can be applied to the process of developing, or procuring, redundant components, to improve the chances of the resulting components not failing on the same demands. An open question is how effective these decisions, and their combinations, are for achieving large enough reliability gains. Using a large population of software programs, we studied experimentally the effectiveness of specific "DSDs" (and their combinations) mandating differences between redundant components. Some of these combinations produced much better improvements in system probability of failure per demand (PFD) than "uncontrolled" diversity did. Yet, our findings suggest that the gains from such "DSDs" vary significantly between them and between the application problems studied. The relationship between DSDs and system PFD is complex and does not allow for simple universal rules
(e.g. "the more diversity the better") to apply
Spatial interactions in agent-based modeling
Agent Based Modeling (ABM) has become a widespread approach to model complex
interactions. In this chapter after briefly summarizing some features of ABM
the different approaches in modeling spatial interactions are discussed.
It is stressed that agents can interact either indirectly through a shared
environment and/or directly with each other. In such an approach, higher-order
variables such as commodity prices, population dynamics or even institutions,
are not exogenously specified but instead are seen as the results of
interactions. It is highlighted in the chapter that the understanding of
patterns emerging from such spatial interaction between agents is a key problem
as much as their description through analytical or simulation means.
The chapter reviews different approaches for modeling agents' behavior,
taking into account either explicit spatial (lattice based) structures or
networks. Some emphasis is placed on recent ABM as applied to the description
of the dynamics of the geographical distribution of economic activities, - out
of equilibrium. The Eurace@Unibi Model, an agent-based macroeconomic model with
spatial structure, is used to illustrate the potential of such an approach for
spatial policy analysis.Comment: 26 pages, 5 figures, 105 references; a chapter prepared for the book
"Complexity and Geographical Economics - Topics and Tools", P. Commendatore,
S.S. Kayam and I. Kubin, Eds. (Springer, in press, 2014
Ergonomists as designers: computational modelling and simulation of complex socio-technical systems
Contemporary ergonomics problems are increasing in scale, ambition, and complexity. Understanding and creating solutions for these multi-faceted, dynamic, and systemic problems challenges traditional methods. Computational modelling approaches can help address this methodological shortfall. We illustrate this potential by describing applications of computational modelling to: (1) teamworking within a multi-team engineering environment; (2) crowd behaviour in different transport terminals; and (3) performance of engineering supply chains. Our examples highlight the benefits and challenges for multi-disciplinary approaches to computational modelling, demonstrating the need for socio-technical design principles. Our experience highlights opportunities for ergonomists as designers and users of computational models, and the instrumental role that ergonomics can play in developing and enhancing complex socio-technical systems. Recognising the challenges inherent in designing computational models, we reflect on practical issues and lessons learned so that computational modelling and simulation can become a standard and valuable technique in the ergonomistsā toolkit
Rosca Participation in Benin: a Commitment Issue
In the light of first-hand data from a Beninese urban household survey in Cotonou, we investigate several motives aiming to explain participation in Rotating Savings and Credit ASsociations. We provide anecdotal pieces of evidence, descriptive statistics, FIML regressions and matching estimates which tend to indicate that most individuals use their participation in a rosca as a device to commit themselves to save money and to deal with self-control problems.ROSCA, self-control, commitment device, Benin
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