Reflection mechanisms to combine Prolog databases

By using practical examples, this paper outlines the power of reflection mechanisms for logic programming systems in the domain of knowledge structuring. In particular, it presents an extension of Prolog, where separate databases can be handled as first‐class objects. Different forms of database combination such as inheritance and dynamic context extension/contraction are specified and implemented in a dynamic and flexible way through reflection. The main aim is to broaden the application area of logic programming to encompass most of the paradigms needed by systems that use artificial intelligence techniques. Practical results presented in the paper show that logic programs that use reflection can be shorter, more readable and efficient than those using more conventional full meta‐interpretation techniques. Full meta‐interpretation, however, is more general than reflection.