# Cobweb: An Incremental and Hierarchical Model of Human-Like Category Learning

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2403.03835 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2403.03835/

## Key facts

- Cited by 5 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- Builds on 3 of its 39 references that are in the map.
- First posted on arXiv 6 Mar 2024.

## Builds on (most cited first, 3 of 3)

- [Convolutional Cobweb: A Model of Incremental Learning from 2D Images](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2201.06740/) (2022)
- [Efficient Induction of Language Models Via Probabilistic Concept Formation](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2212.11937/) (2022)
- [Incremental Concept Formation over Visual Images Without Catastrophic Forgetting](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2402.16933/) (2024)

## Built on by (most cited first, 5 of 5)

- [Taxonomic Networks: A Representation for Neuro-Symbolic Pairing](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2505.24601/) (2025)
- [Deep Taxonomic Networks for Unsupervised Hierarchical Prototype Discovery](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2509.23602/) (2025)
- [Incremental and Data-Efficient Concept Formation to Support Masked Word Prediction](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2409.12440/) (2024)
- [A Rational Account of Categorization Based on Information Theory](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2603.29895/) (2026)
- [Diffusion Models and Concept Formation](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2609.13047/) (2026)

## Abstract (arXiv)

Cobweb, a human-like category learning system, differs from most cognitive science models in incrementally constructing hierarchically organized tree-like structures guided by the category utility measure. Prior studies have shown that Cobweb can capture psychological effects such as basic-level, typicality, and fan effects. However, a broader evaluation of Cobweb as a model of human categorization remains lacking. The current study addresses this gap. It establishes Cobweb's alignment with classical human category learning effects. It also explores Cobweb's flexibility to exhibit both exemplar- and prototype-like learning within a single framework. These findings set the stage for further research on Cobweb as a robust model of human category learning.