Google Teaches Computers "Regret"

mikejuk writes "Google is funding an AI project that will introduce the technical concept of regret into programs — but there's a big difference between regret and being sorry. In fact regret is just the difference between maximum possible reward and the actual reward received and the project is about optimization. There are two things to learn from this situation. The first is that just because some numerical measure is called 'regret' it doesn't mean it has anything to do with the common use of the term. Secondly if you are going to invent an AI technique then picking emotive words for your jargon is a good way to ensure publicity."

Comments

Regret is a standard term in economics

[doshell]

Regret is a standard term in economics (esp. game theory). If anyone is to take the blame over a poor choice of noun, it certainly isn't Google.

Different words with different meanings

[John Hasler]

> ...there's a big difference between regret and being sorry.

Yes. "Regret" is not a synonym for "remorse".