Abstract

The advent of software agents gave rise to much discussion of just what such an agent is, and of how they differ from programs in general. Here we propose a formal definition of an autonomous agent which clearly distinguishes a software agent from just any program. We also offer the beginnings of a natural kinds taxonomy of autonomous agents, and discuss possibilities for further classification. Finally, we discuss subagents and multiagent systems. Introduction On meeting a friend or colleague that we haven't seen for a while, or a new acquaintance, some version of the following conversation often ensues: What are you working on these days? Control structures for autonomous agents. Autonomous agents? What do you mean by that? A brief explanation is then followed by: But agents sound just like computer programs. How are they different? This elicits a more satisfying explanation that distinguishes between agent and program. The nature of this "more satisfying explanation" motivates...

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