Introduction to the SP theory of intelligence
  This article provides a brief introduction to the "Theory of Intelligence"
and its realisation in the "SP Computer Model". The overall goal of the SP
programme of research, in accordance with long-established principles in
science, has been the simplification and integration of observations and
concepts across artificial intelligence, mainstream computing, mathematics, and
human learning, perception, and cognition. In broad terms, the SP system is a
brain-like system that takes in "New" information through its senses and stores
some or all of it as "Old" information. A central idea in the system is the
powerful concept of "SP-multiple-alignment", borrowed and adapted from
bioinformatics. This the key to the system's versatility in aspects of
intelligence, in the representation of diverse kinds of knowledge, and in the
seamless integration of diverse aspects of intelligence and diverse kinds of
knowledge, in any combination. There are many potential benefits and
applications of the SP system. It is envisaged that the system will be
developed as the "SP Machine", which will initially be a software virtual
machine, hosted on a high-performance computer, a vehicle for further research
and a step towards the development of an industrial-strength SP Machine.
