Today I tried a Stanford project called Storm. It is a knowledge organization system driven by large language models (LLMs), which can research a certain topic and generate complete reports with citations.
How STORM Works
STORM divides the generation of long articles with citations into two steps:
: The system conducts internet-based research, gathers reference materials, and generates an outline. : The system generates a complete article with citations using the outline and reference materials.
STORM identifies that the core of the automated research process lies in automatically generating good questions. Directly prompting language models to generate questions yields poor results. To improve the depth and breadth of the questions, STORM adopts two strategies:
: For the input topic, STORM discovers different perspectives by surveying existing articles on similar topics and uses these perspectives to guide the question generation process. : STORM simulates dialogues between Wikipedia authors and topic experts based on internet resources, enabling the language model to update its understanding of the topic and raise follow-up questions.
Based on the separation of two phases, STORM is implemented in a highly modular way via dspy.
Two tasks were experimented with.
Write Wikipedia entries for Castbox.
Propose a task
STORM starts working
The final outcome
Organize the research topics recently studied: evolutionary rationalism and constructive rationalism, these two types of rationalism.
Directly generated a 6-page PDF for me.
I整理 as follows in Chinese sharing:
Two kinds of rationalism: evolutionary rationalism and constructive rationalism
Contents
Summary Historical background Definitions and Core Principles Evolutionary Rationalism Constructivist Rationalism Philosophical Foundations Evolutionary Rationalism Constructive Rationalism Methodology Evolutionary Rationalism Hypothetico-deductive Method A Priori Epistemology The application of evolutionary science in medicine Constructivist approach Comparative analysis Evolutionary rationalism Constructive rationalism Integration and Difference Influence and Contribution Evolutionary Rationalism Constructivist Rationalism Contemporary Perspectives and Criticism Evolutionary Rationalism Constructivist Rationalism Criticism and Challenges Future Directions and Unsolved Problems References
Abstract
As a philosophical doctrine, rationalism asserts that reason is the primary source of knowledge, and its foundational concepts are typically independent of sensory experience. Within this broad framework, two important schools have emerged: evolutionary rationalism and constructive rationalism. These perspectives offer different explanations for how rational thought develops and operates, each providing unique insights into human cognition and epistemology.
Evolutionary rationalism posits that rationality is an adaptive trait formed through the evolutionary process. This view incorporates principles from evolutionary biology, suggesting that human cognitive abilities, including rationality, have evolved to enhance survival and reproductive success. Supporters such as Allan Gibbard argue that our judgments about rationality are influenced by evolutionary pressures, which not only explain the development of rational capacities but also account for potential biases that may lead to deviations from rationality. This perspective aligns with broader criticisms of grand narratives, emphasizing the fluidity and context-dependence of rational thinking.
In contrast, constructive rationalism emphasizes the systematic development of knowledge through reason. This view is based on the belief that fundamental principles can be taught and understood through structured deductive methods. Constructive rationalism prioritizes a priori knowledge—knowledge independent of experience—emphasizing logical consistency and deductive reasoning as pathways to understanding. This view is closely associated with classical rationalist philosophers like Descartes, Spinoza, and Leibniz, who believed that certain truths can be known independently through reason.
The interaction between evolutionary rationalism and constructive rationalism highlights ongoing debates in contemporary philosophy regarding the nature and origins of human knowledge. While evolutionary rationalism emphasizes the adaptability and experiential aspects of rationality, constructive rationalism underscores the role of reason and intellect in acquiring universal and necessary truths. Both perspectives face criticism and challenges; evolutionary rationalism is questioned for its potential relativism, while constructive rationalism is criticized for its perceived rigidity and detachment from empirical reality. Overall, the dialogue between evolutionary and constructive rationalism continues to shape modern epistemological discussions, offering valuable insights into how we perceive and understand the world. Each perspective contributes to a deeper understanding of the complexity of rational thought, emphasizing the dynamic interplay between reason, experience, and the evolutionary process.
Historical Background
The historical background of rationalism involves a critique of grand narratives that legitimize various social actions within the framework of "truth." This critique challenges the linear and evolutionary notions of progress and history inherent in the modern project, advocating for localized and committed knowledge. Furthermore, the concepts of representation and the mind as the sole repository of knowledge have been examined, proposing a socially constructed reality. Delving deeper into history, some authors have explored the origins of human rationality, biology, and socio-cultural evolution, going far beyond recent historical developments such as the Scientific Revolution. Historical skepticism, incommensurability, and relativism have become key concepts in historiography, playing a crucial role in exposing myths and revealing that institutional and conceptual frameworks are primarily of historical origin rather than unchanging structures in the universe.
The philosophical foundations of evolutionary and constructivist rationalism can be traced back to key rationalist philosophers such as Descartes, Spinoza, and Leibniz. Descartes, often regarded as the "father of modern philosophy," believed that eternal truths, including those underlying mathematics and science, could be attained solely through reason. Spinoza and Leibniz further developed rationalism by arguing that all knowledge could, in principle, be deduced through deductive reasoning from fundamental principles, although they also acknowledged practical limitations. The Enlightenment marked a significant development in rationalist thought, emphasizing the introduction of mathematical methods into philosophy. This legacy continues to influence contemporary rational approaches, including the integration of evolutionary and constructivist frameworks.
Although rationalism saw more pronounced development during the modern period, its roots can be traced back to antiquity when philosophers proposed that knowledge could be obtained through rational thought. Notable proponents such as Baruch Spinoza and Gottfried Leibniz further posited that all possible knowledge could be derived through deductive reasoning from foundational principles like geometric axioms. This rationalist approach contrasts with empiricism, which emphasizes experience and observation as the primary means of acquiring knowledge. Thus, the historical development and interaction of rationalism and empiricism have played an important role in shaping modern epistemological perspectives. While rationalism attempts to provide a coherent system of knowledge through deductive reasoning and innate ideas, empiricism challenges this by arguing for the importance of sensory experience and observation in knowledge acquisition. The ongoing dialogue between these two schools of thought continues to influence contemporary discussions about the nature and origins of human rationality.
Definition and Core Principles
Evolutionary Rationalism
Evolutionary rationalism refers to the idea that reason and its principles are products of the evolutionary process. Gibbard's theory of rationality is a notable example of this perspective, suggesting that our rational judgments are influenced both by the outcomes of evolution and by underlying evolutionary considerations. The theory highlights commonalities in the works of Darwin, Hume, and the sentimentalists, proposing that rationality evolves in response to environmental and social pressures, similar to other characteristics in biological organisms. Thus, evolutionary explanations can not only clarify rationalist interpretations but also account for biases that may lead to deviations from rationalist positions.
Constructive Rationalism
On the other hand, constructive rationalism focuses on systematically developing knowledge through reason. This view holds that the foundational principles of any discipline can be taught to anyone at any time, aligning with constructivist educational approaches. This method introduces basic concepts early and continually revisits them to build deeper understanding progressively. Aristotle's contribution to rationalism is crucial here. He defined syllogistic logic as a form of reasoning where conclusions necessarily differ from given premises, laying the foundation for constructive rationalist thought. Rationalism asserts that reason is the unique path to knowledge, prioritizing a priori knowledge—knowledge independent of experience—with mathematics and logical deduction serving as exemplars. This form of knowledge is viewed by rationalists as both necessary and universal because it allows no exceptions. The six principles of constructivist learning theory proposed by Mary Burns, Marilou Menchaca, and Vicki Dimock are critical to this approach. These principles support the idea that knowledge is constructed through active engagement, emphasizing that foundational concepts are key to further learning. By following pure reason, constructive rationalism aims to develop a structured understanding that relies less on empirical evidence and more on logical consistency and deductive reasoning. This contrasts with the empiricist view, which advocates for simultaneous constructive and critical projects, acknowledging the role of sensory experience in acquiring knowledge.
Philosophical Foundations
The philosophical foundations of evolutionary rationalism and constructive rationalism are rooted in the broader tradition of rationalism, emphasizing the primacy of reason in acquiring knowledge. As a philosophical doctrine, rationalism asserts that knowledge is primarily obtained through reason without direct reliance on the senses. This perspective holds that certain types of knowledge, especially in logic and mathematics, are both necessary and universal because they allow no exceptions and cannot be conceived in any other form.
Evolutionary Rationalism
Evolutionary rationalism extends the principles of rationalism by integrating rational principles with evolutionary biology. This view suggests that human rationality can be understood as a product of the evolutionary process. For example, Gibbard's theory of rationality is proposed within an evolutionary context, arguing that our cognitive abilities have evolved through natural selection to enhance survival and reproductive success. This perspective suggests that while rational thought processes are crucial, they are also influenced by evolutionary biases, which may explain certain tendencies or deviations from purely rational behavior. Additionally, historical figures like Augustine combined theology with evolutionary concepts, proposing a form of evolution that includes divine creation followed by natural development.
Constructive Rationalism
On the other hand, constructive rationalism focuses on the cognitive development of rationality. It argues that human cognition...
It is known that development starts from basic primitive concepts and evolves into complex domain-specific intuitive theories through mechanisms such as language learning, Bayesian inductive learning, and constructive thinking. This perspective emphasizes that rationality is not a static trait but rather a dynamic construct that develops as individuals interact with their environment and acquire new information.
Methodology
Evolutionary Rationalism
Evolutionary rationalism integrates the principles of evolution into the understanding of rationality. For example, Gintis's theory is considered "evolutionary" both in its arguments and outcomes. This view holds that rational judgments can be understood within the context of evolutionary processes, linking them to broader biological principles. The analysis of Gintis's theory often involves comparisons and contrasts with the ideas of Darwin, Hume, and sentimentalists, as well as critically examining the common adversaries of these philosophical traditions.
Hypothetico-deductive method
One of the key methods in rationalism is the hypothetico-deductive method. This method involves constructing hypotheses that can be tested empirically. Although rationalists believe that fundamental principles governing nature, such as mathematical laws, are a priori principles that humans can know independently through reason, they do not entirely deny the empirical aspect of scientific inquiry. Theories are hypothetically constructed and then confirmed or refuted through empirical observation and experimentation.
Theory of Innate Knowledge
The theory of innate knowledge posits that innate knowledge—knowledge that does not require sensory experience for validation—is an inherent part of our rational essence. This type of knowledge may be triggered by experience but is not derived from it; rather, it is considered to pre-exist in the mind. Commonly cited examples include basic logical principles, although there is debate over whether this kind of knowledge is consciously accessible to all individuals, especially children and those with cognitive impairments. Rationalists argue that the innateness of such knowledge highlights the independence of rational thought from empirical observation.
Application of Evolutionary Science in Medicine
The application of evolutionary principles extends beyond traditional biological contexts into areas such as human biology and medicine. The American Association of Medical Colleges emphasizes the importance of evolutionary science as a core component of premedical education. Key topics include the origin of traits, adaptability, and interactions between hosts, parasites, and pathogens, all of which are studied using advanced experimental and theoretical tools. This approach underscores the consistency of evolutionary principles across different scientific domains, highlighting their methodological coherence.
Constructivist approach
Constructive rationalism, on the other hand, focuses on the role of individuals actively constructing knowledge through reason and experience. Constructivist scholars argue that knowledge cannot simply be transmitted from teacher to student; instead, individuals must construct their own understanding through experience. This involves engaging students in activities that promote speculation, intuitive thinking, and independent discovery of principles, concepts, and facts. This method of teaching and learning emphasizes the construction of knowledge through interaction with the environment and other individuals, consistent with broader constructivist philosophy.
Comparative analysis
Evolutionary rationalism and constructive rationalism represent two distinct perspectives within the broader framework of rationalism, each offering unique insights into the nature and origin of knowledge.
Evolutionary rationalism
Evolutionary rationalism holds that certain forms of knowledge are innate and have been shaped through the evolutionary process. This perspective is based on the idea that natural selection favors cognitive structures that enhance survival and reproduction. Supporters such as Carruthers argue that principles like those of folk psychology are innately determined and manifest as part of natural development at specific stages in human growth. Gibbard's theory of evolutionary rationality further suggests that judgments about rationality have evolved to align with adaptive behaviors. Thus, evolutionary rationalism links the origin of knowledge to the evolutionary experiential process, viewing our capacity for certain types of knowledge as a result of biological adaptation.
Constructive Rationalism
In contrast, constructive rationalism emphasizes the role of intellect and reason in directly acquiring knowledge, often independently of sensory experience. This view was explicitly articulated by philosophers such as Descartes, Spinoza, and Leibniz, who believed that intellect can grasp logical truths and fundamental principles without empirical input. Constructive rationalism argues that innate knowledge, such as mathematics and logic, is necessary and universal, existing beyond sensory experience and empirical data. Kant's critical philosophy also aligns with this view, emphasizing the constructive role of intellect in shaping knowledge.
Integration and Differences
Although both evolutionary rationalism and constructive rationalism recognize the importance of reason in human cognition, they differ significantly in their fundamental assumptions. Evolutionary rationalism integrates empirical evidence and evolutionary biology to explain innate knowledge, bridging the gap between the empirical and rationalist traditions. Constructive rationalism, on the other hand, aligns more closely with classical rationalism, holding that intellect itself can generate certain and necessary knowledge independent of the contingencies of experience. Moreover, these theories have different practical implications. Evolutionary rationalism suggests that our knowledge is shaped by adaptive functions and is therefore subject to evolutionary constraints and changes. In contrast, constructive rationalism asserts that certain forms of knowledge are immutable and universally applicable, providing a stable foundation for scientific and logical inquiry.
Influence and Contribution
Evolutionary Rationalism
Evolutionary rationalism is deeply influenced by the principles of evolutionary biology and cognitive development. The concept that our beliefs and knowledge systems can be shaped through an evolutionary process can be traced back to the trial-and-error experiences of our ancestors. Kevin Laland's research delves into animal behavior, social learning, and cultural evolution, emphasizing the importance of niche construction and other evolutionary processes in shaping knowledge systems. Evolutionary principles are increasingly being integrated into various fields such as medicine, agriculture, conservation biology, and environmental science, providing new insights and applications from understanding disease mechanisms to optimizing breeding programs. Evolutionary rationalism also draws on the ideas of Darwin, Hume, and sentimentalists, examining how biological sciences and philosophy intersect to form our understanding of rationality and belief systems. For rationalists, the integration of evolutionary principles provides a foundation for the scientific method, believing that the fundamental principles governing nature are innate truths that can be understood through reason.
Constructivist Rationalism
Constructivist rationalism or constructivism holds that knowledge is actively constructed by learners rather than passively absorbed. This theory is influenced by various intellectual traditions such as psychology, sociology, and the philosophy of mathematics. In developmental and educational contexts, constructivism emphasizes that learners build their own representations of the world through experience and reflection, incorporating new information into existing knowledge frameworks. The rational constructivist theory of cognitive development synthesizes these views, suggesting that human infants start with primitive concepts and develop domain-specific intuitive theories through mechanisms like language learning, Bayesian inductive learning, and constructive thinking. The construction process extends beyond individual cognition to social learning, where knowledge is built collectively within real-world social environments.
Contemporary Perspectives and Criticism
The contemporary discourse on rationalism has expanded to include evolutionary rationalism and constructive rationalism, each offering distinct perspectives on the nature and development of rational thought.
Evolutionary Rationalism
Evolutionary rationalism posits that rationality is an adaptive trait formed through the evolutionary process. Gibbard's theory of rationality serves as a notable example, emphasizing that rational judgment is not static but evolves in response to environmental pressures and social contexts. This approach integrates insights from Darwinian evolution, Humean philosophy, and affective theories, suggesting that rationality functions as a survival and adaptation mechanism in complex environments. Evolutionary rationalism also critiques fixed and universal notions of rationality, proposing a more fluid and context-dependent understanding. This perspective aligns with broader criticisms of grand narratives and linear progress in modern thought, advocating for localized and committed forms of knowledge.
Constructive Rationalism
In contrast, constructive rationalism emphasizes the role of reason in actively shaping
and constructing knowledge. It aligns with traditional rationalist views that reason is the primary source and test of knowledge, independent of sensory experience. Constructive rationalism advocates a methodology where intellect and deductive processes are most important in establishing truth. It criticizes empiricism's reliance on sensory experience, arguing that some propositions can be known through rational reflection independently, without empirical investigation. This approach suggests that certain truths can be obtained through the intrinsic abilities of the human mind, highlighting the importance of reason in the construction of knowledge.
Criticism and Challenges
Both evolutionary rationalism and constructive rationalism face significant criticism. Evolutionary rationalism is challenged for its potential to relativize reason, suggesting that reason can vary significantly across different contexts and periods, thereby weakening the possibility of universal rational standards. Moreover, integrating evolutionary theory into rationalism raises the question of whether reason can be viewed as a purely adaptive feature rather than a unique cognitive ability. On the other hand, constructive rationalism is criticized for its potential rigidity and detachment from experiential reality. Critics argue that by prioritizing intellect and deductive processes, constructive rationalism may overlook the importance of sensory experience and empirical verification in establishing knowledge. Additionally, relying solely on reason may lead to an overemphasis on abstract theorization at the expense of practical applicability.
Future Directions and Unresolved Questions
Many questions raised by the concept of historicist rationalism remain unresolved, but the merit of this approach lies in reopening a set of interconnected issues. What exactly is rationality when agents are placed within actual socio-cultural contexts? Is rationality something discovered or constructed by humans? If we are to allow rationality's claim to knowledge, at least some evolutionary (and therefore empirical) explanation will be required. Thus, even an aspect of one of the traditional debates at the core of empiricism survives in my proposal. We can only know a priori that we possess such knowledge when our innate knowledge does not involve anything independent of our minds (i.e., only when it is analytic). Regarding the organization of disciplinary content, constructivist perspectives suggest that the foundational principles of any discipline can be taught to anyone at any time. This method involves an initial introduction to the basic concepts that constitute the subject or field of study, followed by continuous revisiting and expanding upon these concepts. Empiricism and rationalism are two schools of thought in philosophy with differing views, and thus should be understood according to their differences. Empiricism is an epistemological position that holds experience and observation as means to acquire knowledge. On the other hand, rationalism focuses on reason as the primary source of knowledge. This dichotomy raises the question of whether evolutionary rationalism and constructivist rationalism can be reconciled or if they are fundamentally opposed. Moreover, empiricism does not aim, in its constructive project, to discover substantive truths about non-empirical entities such as God and the soul through reason, unlike rationalism. This critical perspective highlights the ongoing challenge of defining the scope and limitations of human knowledge within different epistemological frameworks. Future research and philosophical debates need to explore these unresolved issues and clarify the implications of combining or choosing between evolutionary and constructivist rationalist approaches.
References
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