Knowledge-based Semantic Reasoning for Creativity

Creativity can be challenging in the idea generation process as it is hard to formalise and control. However, there are requirements for creative ideas in many fields. Generating new and inspirational ideas is mainly manual work, and it usually happens in the individual human mind or a group of persons. There is a lack of software systems to generate creative ideas automatically. In this paper, a prototype software system based on a semantic reasoning method is proposed for assisting creativity in the general idea generation process. The kernel algorithm of the system is a set of inference rules designed on the basis of semantic computing technologies and creativity techniques, which is the core of the semantic reasoning. The fundamental information supporting the inference are domains knowledge managed as ontology bases. Furthermore, a major recommender is designed and implemented by employing the proposed idea creation method to enhance the inspiration level of university choice for teenagers. As a prototype software system, the developed major recommender application proves the feasibility and innovation of the proposed method.