Abstract

Introduction Neural networks have been exploited in a wide variety of applications, the majority of which are concerned with pattern recognition in one form or another. However, it has become widely acknowledged that the effective solution of all but the simplest of such problems requires a principled treatment, in other words one based on a sound theoretical framework. From the perspective of pattern recognition, neural networks can be regarded as an extension of the many conventional techniques which have been developed over several decades. Lack of understanding of the basic principles of statistical pattern recognition lies at the heart of many of the common mistakes in the application of neural networks. In this chapter we aim to show that the `black box' stigma of neural networks is largely unjustified, and that there is actually considerable insight available into the way in which neural networks operate, and how to use them effectively. Some of the ke

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