Conversation as planned behavior

In this paper, planning models developed in artificial intelligence are applied to the kind of planning that must be carried out by participants in a conversation. A planning mechanism is defined, and a short fragment of a free-flowing videotaped conversation is described. The bulk of the paper is then devoted to an attempt to understand the conversation in terms of the planning mechanism. This microanalysis suggests ways in which the planning mechanism must be augmented, and reveals several important conversational phenomena that deserve further investigation.     

Book review

Oyama, S. The ontogeny of information: Developmental systems and evolution. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. 1986. Pp. ix + 206. Hardback: ISBN 0-521-32098-4. £22.50 ($34.50). Paperback: ISBN 0-521-31257-4. £8.95 ($12.95).     

The Choice of Weapons: A Study of Methods of Suicide by Sex,Race, and Region

ABSTRACT: The relationship of sex, race and region to methods of suicide are used to test the validity of two theories which attempt to explain the choice of methods among suicide victims. The two theories, lethality of intent and differential socialization with firearms, are briefly discussed. Data are collected from official death certificates in five cities during a three year period, 1969 through 1971. The findings provide little support for the lethality of intent theory. Although the differential socialization theory receives partial support, one can argue for a broader sociocultural perspective on methods of suicide which includes location in the social structure as well as regional socialization.