Formal Language for Business Communication: Sketch of a Basic Theory

Progress in research on developing a general-purpose formal language for business communications (FLBC) has been substantial. Key distinctions have been made, important concepts identified, and impressive prototypes implemented. The purpose of this paper is to present succinctly the basic elements of a complete (logical) theory for an FLBC. These elements include speech act theory, event semantics, extensive use of thematic roles, and representation in first-order logic. The theory is expected to lead to superior messaging in electronic commerce.

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