Information Processing Apparatus, Information Processing Method, and Information Processing Program

Abstract

To achieve good information presentation for encouraging decision making and actions of a user.SOLUTION: An information processing device comprises an acceptance unit, a generation unit, and a provision unit. The acceptance unit accepts a fact noteworthy about assertion to a prescribed theme or a post of grounds serving as support of the fact from a user. The generation unit generates visualization information in which information containing logically structured fact and grounds can be displayed on different surfaces of a solid figure per assertion. The provision unit provides the visualization information according to a request from the user.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 11

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and an information processing program.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, with the widespread penetration of online communication services such as SNS (Social Networking Service) and bulletin boards among the general public, information sharing through networks has become active. Currently, these services are becoming an essential tool for users to obtain necessary information. These services are evolving day by day with the development of information and communication technologies, based on, for example, a conventional technique in which other users post answers to a question posted by a user.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, the way of information sharing by the above-described services is not necessarily beneficial in promoting the decision-making and actions of users, and there is room for improvement.

[0005] The present application has been made in view of the above, and an object thereof is to provide an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and an information processing program capable of realizing high-quality information presentation for promoting user decision-making and actions.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The information processing apparatus according to the present application includes a reception unit, a generation unit, and a provision unit. The reception unit receives from a user a submission of a fact that should agree with a claim regarding a predetermined theme, or a basis that supports the fact. The generation unit generates visualization information that can display information including logically structured facts and bases on different faces of a three-dimensional figure for each claim. The provision unit provides the visualization information in response to a request from the user.

Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to one aspect of the embodiment, it is possible to realize high-quality information presentation for promoting user decision-making and actions.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008]

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[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments for implementing the information processing apparatus, information processing method, and information processing program according to the present application (hereinafter referred to as "embodiments") will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the information processing apparatus, information processing method, and information processing program according to the present application are not limited by the embodiments described below. In addition, the embodiments described below can be appropriately combined within a range that does not cause contradictions in the processing content. In the embodiments described below, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0010] In the following description, the terminal device 10A(10) may be described as the editor U1. That is, the editor U1 can be read as the terminal device 10A(10). In the following description, the terminal device 10B(10) may be described as the poster U2. That is, the poster U2 can be read as the terminal device 10B(10). In the following description, the terminal device 10C(10) may be described as the viewer U3. That is, the viewer U3 can be read as the terminal device 10C(10).

[0011] In addition, in the embodiments described below, the information processing apparatus 100 executes a service that provides a user participation-type media to service users. Through this user participation-type media, the information processing apparatus 100 discloses a predetermined theme formulated by an editor who is a media participant, and accepts, from a contributor who is a media participant, a submission such as evidence that supports the facts that should be agreed with regarding the claims for the predetermined theme published together with the predetermined theme. Then, the information processing apparatus 100 accepts the editing work of the information from the editor and the contributor, logically structures the information regarding the predetermined theme, and provides the information visualized by diagrams to viewers and the like who are media participants.

[0012] [1. Example of Information Processing System] Hereinafter, the information processing system SYS according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining an example of the information processing system according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the information processing system SYS according to the embodiment includes a terminal device 10 and an information processing apparatus 100. Note that the information processing system SYS is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 1, and may include a plurality of information processing apparatuses 100.

[0013] The terminal device 10 and the information processing apparatus 100 are each connected to a network N (for example, see FIG. 11) by wire or wirelessly. The network N is a communication network such as a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), a telephone network (mobile phone network, fixed telephone network, etc.), a regional IP (Internet Protocol) network, or the Internet. The network N may include a wired network or may include a wireless network. The terminal device 10 and the information processing apparatus 100 can communicate with each other through the network N.

[0014] The terminal device 10 shown in FIG. 1 is an information processing device used by a user U who uses various services provided by an information processing device 100 or the like. For example, the terminal device 10 is realized by a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a notebook PC (Personal Computer), a desktop PC, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), or the like.

[0015] Also, the terminal device 10 can be connected to the network N via a wireless communication network such as LTE (Long Term Evolution), 4G (4th Generation), 5G (5th Generation: the 5th generation mobile communication system), or short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) and wireless LAN (Local Area Network).

[0016] Also, the terminal device 10 can display, for example, information for using user-participation media provided by the information processing device 100 on a web browser or an application. When the terminal device 10 receives control information for realizing the information display process from the information processing device 100 or the like, the terminal device 10 realizes the display process according to the control information.

[0017] The information processing device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is an information processing device that provides various services to service users. The information processing device 100 is typically a server device, but may also be realized by a mainframe, a workstation, or the like. When the information processing device 100 is realized by a server device, it may be realized by a single server, or may be realized by a cloud system in which a plurality of server devices and a plurality of storage devices cooperate to operate. Note that the information processing device 100 may function as a distribution device that distributes control information to the terminal device 10 used by the service user. Here, the control information is described by, for example, a script language such as JavaScript (registered trademark) or a style sheet language such as CSS (Cascading Style Sheets). Note that the application itself distributed from the information processing device 100 may be regarded as control information.

[0018] The various services provided by the information processing apparatus 100 may include API (Application Programming Interface) services corresponding to various applications and various online services. The various online services may include services such as Internet connection, search service, SNS (Social Networking Service), e-commerce service, electronic payment service, online game, online banking service, online trading service, accommodation reservation service, ticket reservation service, video distribution service, music distribution service, news distribution service, map information service, route search service, route guidance service, route information service, operation information service, weather information service, and the like.

[0019] In addition, as one of the online services, the information processing apparatus 100 provides a user-participation type media to service users. There are three roles for the participants in the user-participation type media. The first role is an editor who formulates a predetermined theme and edits the information posted for the predetermined theme. The second role is a poster who posts grounds for a predetermined theme. The third role is a viewer who views the visualization information provided from the information processing apparatus 100. In providing the user-participation type media to service users, the information processing according to the embodiment is executed. In the following embodiments, an example of accepting from a poster a ground (evidence) that supports the truth (fact), a ground that reinforces the ground, or a posting of a counterargument to the posted ground will be described, but a posting of the truth about a claim regarding the theme may be accepted from the poster.

[0020] [2. An Example of Information Processing] (2-1. An Example of Overall Processing) Hereinafter, an example of information processing in the information processing system SYS will be described with reference to FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 1, in response to a request from the editor U1, the information processing apparatus 100 provides a content setting screen W1 (for example, see FIG. 2) for setting themes and the like of user participation media (step S1).

[0021] On the other hand, when the editor U1 operates the content setting screen W1 displayed on the terminal device 10A to set a theme or the like, the terminal device 10A transmits setting information including information such as the theme set by the editor U1 to the information processing apparatus 100 (step S2).

[0022] The information processing apparatus 100 starts a thread corresponding to the theme proposed by the editor U1, and starts accepting submissions of evidence that should support the claims regarding the theme proposed by the editor U1 through the user participation media. The information processing apparatus 100 provides a submission reception screen W3 (for example, see FIG. 2) to the submitter U2 in response to a request from the submitter U2 (step S3).

[0023] On the other hand, when the submitter U2 operates the submission reception screen W3 displayed on the terminal device 10B to input submission content (claims or evidence), the terminal device 10B transmits submission information including the submission content input by the submitter U2 to the information processing apparatus 100 (step S4).

[0024] Each time the information processing apparatus 100 acquires the submission information transmitted from the terminal device 10B, it sequentially stores the submission information in association with the thread corresponding to the theme associated with the submission information. Then, at an arbitrary timing, the information processing apparatus 100 logically structures the information including the facts that should support the claims regarding the theme proposed by the editor U1 and the evidence that supports the facts, and generates a graph board GB (see FIG. 3) visualized by illustration. The graph board GB is an example of visualization information.

[0025] In addition, in response to a request from the editor U1, the information processing apparatus 100 provides the graph board GB (step S6).

[0026] On the other hand, when the editor U1 edits the graph board GB displayed on the terminal device 10A, the terminal device 10A transmits editing information regarding the editing content to the information processing apparatus 100 (step S7). For example, the editing information may include information indicating the relationship between the facts that should be agreed with the claims for the published theme and the grounds posted by the contributor for the facts.

[0027] Based on the editing information transmitted from the terminal device 10A, the information processing apparatus 100 updates the graph board GB at an arbitrary timing (step S8).

[0028] In addition, in response to a request from the viewer U3, the information processing apparatus 100 provides the graph board GB (step S9).

[0029] On the other hand, when the viewer U3 evaluates the claims, grounds, etc. included in the graph board GB displayed on the terminal device 10C, the terminal device 10C transmits evaluation information regarding the evaluation content to the information processing apparatus 100 (step S10).

[0030] Based on the evaluation information transmitted from the terminal device 10C, the information processing apparatus 100 updates the graph board GB at an arbitrary timing (step S11).

[0031] (2-2. Information display example) Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 2, an example of information displayed on each terminal device 10 used by a service user of the user participation type media will be described in accordance with the processing in the information processing system SYS (see FIG. 1 for example). FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of information display according to the embodiment.

[0032] For example, as shown in FIG. 2, a content setting screen W1 is displayed on the terminal device 10A used by the editor U1 (step S21). On the content setting screen W1, a button OB1 for setting the theme of the graph board GB and a button OB2 for editing the graph board GB are provided.

[0033] For example, when an operation of the editor U1 on the button OB1 is detected on the content setting screen W1 of the terminal device 10A, a theme setting screen W2 is displayed (step S22). On the theme setting screen W2, an input box BX1 for accepting the input of the user ID, an input box BX2 for accepting the input of the theme, an input box BX3 for accepting the input of the claim, an input box BX4 for accepting the input of the truth, etc. are provided.

[0034] In the input box BX1, information (user ID) for identifying a service user who uses the user participation type media is input. When the user has already logged in to the user participation type media, the input of the user ID etc. may be omitted, or automatic login setting may be possible. In the input box BX2, for example, a theme proposed by the editor U1 when generating the graph board GB such as "Vaccinate? Don't vaccinate?" is input. In the input box BX3, for example, a claim (such as "Vaccinate? Don't vaccinate?") for the theme is input by the editor U1, such as "vaccinate" or "don't vaccinate" for the vaccine. In the input box BX4, for example, a fact that should agree with the claim for the theme is input by the editor U1.

[0035] Also, on the theme setting screen W2 shown in FIG. 2, a button OB3 for requesting the start of accepting submissions is provided. When the terminal device 10A detects an operation of the editor U1 on the button OB3, it transmits a request for requesting the start of accepting submissions to the information processing device 100 together with various setting information set on the theme setting screen W2.

[0036] Also, on the terminal device 10B used by the contributor U2, as shown in FIG. 2, a contribution reception screen W3 is displayed (step S23). On the contribution reception screen W3, a list of themes for which contributions are being received is displayed, and a plurality of buttons OB4 for selecting a theme for making a contribution are provided for each theme. For example, button OB4-1 is associated with the theme "〇〇〇", button OB4-2 is associated with the theme "×××", and button OB4-3 is associated with the theme "△△△".

[0037] For example, when an operation of the contributor U2 on button OB4-1 is detected, the terminal device 10B displays a contribution input screen W4 for inputting contribution information for the theme "〇〇〇" (step S24).

[0038] On the contribution input screen W4 shown in FIG. 2, an input box BX5 for accepting input of a user ID, an input box BX6 for accepting input of a contribution type, an input box BX7 for accepting input of contribution content, etc. are provided.

[0039] In the input box BX6, information (user ID) for identifying a service user who uses the user participation type media is input. In the input box BX6, information indicating whether the contribution content corresponds to either evidence or a counterargument (evidence) is input. Note that the contribution type may be automatically set according to an operation on an icon provided on the graph board GB described later. In the input box BX7, for example, information regarding the contribution content is input. Note that the information regarding the contribution content may be information input by the contributor U2 as text for the contribution content, or may be address information such as a URL (Uniform Resource Locator) indicating the location of a web page or document in which information for reinforcing claims or evidence, etc. is described. Note that the input box BX7 may be provided with a reference button (not shown) for attaching a URL or data.

[0040] In addition, on the post input screen W4 shown in FIG. 2, a button OB5 for requesting transmission of post information is provided. When the terminal device 10B detects an operation of the poster U2 on the button OB5, it transmits post information regarding the post content set on the post input screen W4 to the information processing device 100.

[0041] The information processing device 100 records the post information posted by the poster U2 in association with the theme set by the editor U1 in the post information storage unit 122.

[0042] In addition, when the terminal device 10A detects an operation of the editor U1 on the button OB2 on the content setting screen W1, it displays an edit start screen W5 (step S25). On the edit start screen W5, an input box BX8 for specifying a graph board GB for which editing is desired is provided. Information for specifying the graph board GB for which editing is desired, such as a theme name, is input into the input box BX8.

[0043] In addition, on the edit start screen W5 shown in FIG. 2, a button OB6 for requesting provision of the graph board GB for which editing is desired is provided. When the terminal device 10A detects an operation of the editor U1 on the button OB6, it transmits a request for provision of the graph board GB to the information processing device 100 together with the information input into the input box BX8.

[0044] Based on the information included in the request transmitted by the editor U1, the information processing device 100 acquires the information of the graph board GB from the content storage unit 124, and transmits the acquired information of the graph board GB to the terminal device 10A to provide it to the editor U1.

[0045] (2-3. An Example of a Graph Board) Hereinafter, an example of a graph board generated by the information processing device 100 will be described with reference to FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a graph board according to the embodiment.

[0046] The graph board GB generated by the information processing apparatus 100 has a tree structure in which objects (nodes) indicating truths that should be agreed with regarding the theme corresponding to the graph board GB, grounds that support the truths, etc. are logically connected. For example, the graph board GB shown in FIG. 3 is an example of visualized information that logically structures information including facts and grounds and visualizes it by illustration. Note that hereinafter, as the information included in the graph board GB, examples including claims, truths, grounds (counterarguments), etc. will be described, but this example does not necessarily have to be particularly limited. For example, depending on the theme visualized by the graph board GB, it may include information such as necessary conditions, induction, and deduction. Also, as information indicating the logical connection relationship between the information included in the graph board, not only causality and specific (examples), but also explanations, etc. may be included.

[0047] In FIG. 3, for the theme of "Get vaccinated? Don't get vaccinated?", two claims, claim PA1: "Get vaccinated" and claim PA2: "Don't get vaccinated", are shown. Claim PA1 and claim PA2 are the main points of the opposing arguments in the theme of "Get vaccinated? Don't get vaccinated?".

[0048] Also, in the graph board GB shown in FIG. 3, a plurality of facts F1 (facts) regarding claim PA1 and grounds R1 (evidence) that support the facts F1 are shown. As facts F1 regarding claim PA1: "Get vaccinated", fact F1-1: "Can contribute to herd immunity.", fact F1-2: "Less likely to be infected.", and fact F1-3: "Less likely to become severely ill (die)." are shown. Facts F1-1 to F1-3 can also be said to be the reasons for agreeing with claim PA1.

[0049] In addition, on the graph board GB shown in FIG. 3, a plurality of facts F2 (facts) regarding claim PA2 and the basis R2 (evidence) supporting the facts F2 are shown. Also, as facts F2 regarding claim PA2: "Do not hit", fact F2-1: "The effect on the human body is unknown and there are unpredictable effects", fact F2-2: "There is a risk of death due to side effects.", and fact F2-3: "It can cause infertility." are shown. Facts F2-1 to F2-3 can also be said to be the reasons for agreeing with claim PA2.

[0050] In addition, on the graph board GB shown in FIG. 3, as information indicating the relationships between facts F1 in claim PA1, between facts F1 and basis R1, between bases R1, between facts F2 in claim PA2, between facts F2 and basis R2, between bases R2, and between basis R1 in claim PA1 and basis R2 in claim PA2, an arrow G1 is shown.

[0051] For example, in claim PA1, between fact F1-1 and fact F1-2, and between fact F1-1 and fact F1-3 are connected by arrow G1, and along this arrow G1, "causality" is displayed. Also, for example, between fact F2-1 and fact F2-2, and between fact F2-1 and fact F2-3 are connected by arrow G1, and along this arrow G1, "specific" is displayed. Also, for example, between basis R1-4 and basis R2-2 are connected by arrow G1, and along this arrow G1, "counterargument" is displayed. In addition, between fact F1-2 and basis R1-1, between fact F1-2 and basis R1-1, etc. are connected by arrow G1. These arrows G1 are added to the graph board GB, for example, by the editing work of editor U1.

[0052] In addition, on the graph board GB shown in FIG. 3, an icon G2 for receiving submissions of new basis that supports facts F1 and facts F2, new basis that strengthens basis R1 and basis R2, and counterarguments against basis R1 and basis R2, etc., is provided for each of facts F1, each of bases R1, each of facts F2, and each of bases R2.

[0053] For example, when contributor U2 adds a basis for basis R2-3, the contributor operates icon G2-1 that constitutes icon G2 to post the basis. Also, for example, when contributor U2 posts a counterargument (reason for not agreeing with basis R2-2) for basis R2-2 as shown in FIG. 3, the contributor operates icon G2-1 that constitutes icon G2 to post the counterargument (basis).

[0054] Further, on the graph board GB shown in FIG. 3, an icon G3 is provided for receiving an evaluation of the graph board GB from viewer U3. In the example shown in FIG. 3, for convenience of explanation, the specific notations of the icons G3 provided for each of the claims PA1 and PA2 included in the graph board GB, the facts F1 and F2 included in the graph board GB, and the bases R1 and R2 are omitted.

[0055] For example, when viewer U3 posts an evaluation of graph board GB, the viewer U3 operates icon G3 provided on graph board GB to post an evaluation of graph board GB. As shown in FIG. 3, when graph board GB detects an operation on icon G3, viewer U3 displays sub-window W6 for posting evaluation information indicating the evaluation content of graph board GB. In sub-window W6 shown in FIG. 3, there are radio button OB7 for selecting whether to "like", radio button OB8 for selecting whether to "donate money", button OB9 for executing transmission of evaluation information, and input box BX9 for inputting the amount of "donating money". For example, when viewer U3 only executes "liking", the viewer may select the "like" side in radio button OB7, select the side of not "donating money" in radio button OB8, and then operate button OB9. Similarly, when posting an evaluation of basis R1-5, select icon G3 provided on basis R1-5 to post an evaluation. Note that, for example, an evaluator such as viewer U3 who evaluates information included in graph board GB can perform evaluations such as "donating money" and "liking" through sub-window W6 displayed by operating icon G3 for all claims PA, all facts F, and all bases R included in graph board GB.

[0056] <2-4. Example of Score Determination Table> Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 4, an example of a score determination table referred to when information processing apparatus 100 assigns a score indicating the strength of information possessed by graph board GB will be described. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a score determination table (part 1) according to the embodiment.

[0057] For example, when information processing apparatus 100 receives an evaluation of information (for example, facts or bases (counterarguments), etc.) possessed by graph board GB, it can score the strength (reliability) of the information possessed by graph board GB based on the editing achievements of editor U1. Then, information processing apparatus 100 can generate a visualized graph board GB that reflects the scored strength.

[0058] Also, for example, the information processing apparatus 100 can score the strength of the information included in the graph board GB based on an evaluation category defined in advance according to the editing results of the editor U1 and a score defined in advance in association with the action content when an evaluation is performed on the information included in the graph board GB. Note that the information processing apparatus 100 may receive an evaluation of the graph board GB. In this case, the information processing apparatus 100 can score the strength of the graph board GB itself based on the received evaluation.

[0059] The evaluation of the editor U1 is determined based on the uniqueness of the editing work of the editor U1 when editing the tree structure of the graph board GB. For example, the editor U1 is evaluated based on editing results such as correcting the association (connection destination) of the basis posted by the poster U2 (for example, changing the arrow G1 or changing the hierarchy), correcting the basis including a plurality of elements (for example, splitting elements or deleting one element), correcting overlapping bases (for example, deleting one basis), and labeling inappropriate bases (or counterarguments) (for example, labeling bases determined to be inappropriate due to counterarguments or the like as inappropriate information).

[0060] Also, for example, the information processing apparatus 100 can score the strength of the information included in the graph board GB based on an evaluation category defined in advance according to the posting results of the poster U2 and a score defined in advance in association with the action content when an evaluation is performed on the information included in the graph board GB. Also, for example, the information processing apparatus 100 can score the strength of the information included in the graph board GB based on a score defined in advance in association with the action content when the viewer U3 evaluates the information included in the graph board GB.

[0061] FIG. 4 shows an example of the scores assigned to the information included in the graph board GB. In the table TB1 shown in FIG. 4, each item corresponding to the evaluation categories defined in advance for each role of the user participation type media is provided. For example, in the table TB1 shown in FIG. 4, as the evaluation categories (reference points) of the editor U1, "good (50)", "not good (1)", and "bad (-10)" are shown.

[0062] Also, in the table TB1 shown in FIG. 4, each item corresponding to the action content when the evaluation of the information possessed by the graph board GB is performed is provided. For example, in the table TB1 shown in FIG. 4, as the action content of the editor U1, "tipping" and "liking" are shown. And in the table TB1 shown in FIG. 4, an example of the score (intensity) given to the information possessed by the graph board GB when the editor U1 evaluates the information possessed by the graph board GB is shown. That is, as exemplified below, depending on the personality of the editor U1, the contributor U2, the viewer U3, etc., and the evaluation of this personality, the weight of the evaluation posted on the graph board GB is flexibly changed according to the posting mode (for example, "liking" or "tipping").

[0063] For example, in the table TB1 shown in FIG. 4, "800" is exemplified as the score when the editor U1 whose evaluation category belongs to "good (50)" makes an evaluation by "tipping". That is, for the evaluation by "tipping" by the editor U1 whose evaluation category belongs to "good (50)", a large weighting is given to the reference point: "50" (16 times). Also, in the table TB1 shown in FIG. 4, "80" is exemplified as the score when the editor U1 whose evaluation category belongs to "good (50)" makes an evaluation by "liking". That is, for the evaluation by "liking" by the editor U1 whose evaluation category belongs to "good (50)", although not as much as the evaluation by "tipping", a weighting is given to the reference point: "50" (1.6 times).

[0064] Also, in the table TB1 shown in FIG. 4, “10” is exemplified as the score when editor U1 belonging to the evaluation category “poor (1)” makes an evaluation by “tipping”. That is, even for editor U1 belonging to the evaluation category “poor (1)”, regarding the evaluation by “tipping”, considering that it involves a financial burden, it is weighted (10 times) relative to the reference point: “1”. Also, in the table TB1 shown in FIG. 4, “1” is exemplified as the score when editor U1 belonging to the evaluation category “poor (1)” makes an evaluation by “liking”. That is, regarding the evaluation by “liking” by editor U1 belonging to the evaluation category “poor (1)”, since it does not involve a financial burden and the hurdle for the evaluator to make an evaluation is not high, it is set at an equal multiple without weighting relative to the reference point: “1”.

[0065] Also, in the table TB1 shown in FIG. 4, “-100” is exemplified as the score when editor U1 belonging to the evaluation category “bad (-10)” makes an evaluation by “tipping”. That is, regarding the evaluation by editor U1 belonging to the evaluation category “bad (-10)”, even if it is “tipping”, considering that it may cause a decrease in the reliability of the graph board GB, etc., it is weighted (10 times) relative to the reference point: “-10”. Also, in the table TB1 shown in FIG. 4, “-10” is exemplified as the score when editor U1 belonging to the evaluation category “bad (-10)” makes an evaluation by “liking”. That is, regarding the evaluation by “liking” by editor U1 belonging to the evaluation category “bad (-10)”, it is not weighted relative to the reference point: “-10” and is set at an equal multiple.

[0066] Also, in the table TB1 shown in FIG. 4, similar to the case of editor U1, an example of the score (strength) given to the information possessed by the graph board GB when the information possessed by the graph board GB is evaluated by poster U2 is shown.

[0067] For example, in the table TB1 shown in FIG. 4, as the evaluation categories (reference points) of the contributor U2, "good (50)", "not good (1)", and "bad (-10)" are shown. And, for example, in the table TB1 shown in FIG. 4, "500" is exemplified as the score when the contributor U2 whose evaluation category belongs to "good (50)" makes an evaluation by "tipping". That is, for the evaluation by "tipping" by the editor U1 whose evaluation category belongs to "good (50)", a large weight is given to the reference point: "50" (10 times). Also, in FIG. 4, "50" is exemplified as the score when the editor U1 whose evaluation category belongs to "good (50)" makes an evaluation by "liking". That is, for the evaluation by "liking" by the editor U1 whose evaluation category belongs to "good (50)", no weight is given to the reference point: "50", and it is set to be equal.

[0068] Also, in the table TB1 shown in FIG. 4, "10" is exemplified as the score when the contributor U2 whose evaluation category belongs to "not good (1)" makes an evaluation by "tipping", and "1" is exemplified as the score when the contributor U2 whose evaluation category belongs to "not good (1)" makes an evaluation by "liking". These scores are the same as those of the editor U1. Also, "-100" is exemplified as the score when the contributor U2 whose evaluation category belongs to "bad (-10)" makes an evaluation by "tipping", and "-10" is exemplified as the score when the contributor U2 whose evaluation category belongs to "bad (-10)" makes an evaluation by "liking". These scores are also the same as those of the editor U1.

[0069] In the table TB1 shown in FIG. 4, it is set such that the score corresponding to the evaluation category: "good"> the score corresponding to the evaluation category: "not good"> the score corresponding to the evaluation category: "bad". Also, in the table TB1 shown in FIG. 4, when the evaluation categories are the same, the score of the editor U1 is set higher than the score of the contributor U2. This takes into account that the editor U1 has a higher contribution to the creation of the graph board GB than the contributor U2, and is intended to emphasize the evaluation of the editor U1.

[0070] Also, in the example shown in FIG. 4, “10” is exemplified as the score when viewer U3 makes an evaluation by “tipping”, and “1” is exemplified as the score when viewer U3 makes an evaluation by “liking”.

[0071] Also, the information processing apparatus 100 may reduce the score indicating the intensity of the information that the graph board GB has over time. FIG. 5 shows an example of the number of days (hereinafter referred to as “half-life”) until the score given to the graph board GB is halved. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a score determination table (the second one) according to the embodiment. Note that the information on the evaluation classification for each role and the information on the action content provided in the table TB2 shown in FIG. 5 are the same as those in the table TB1 shown in FIG. 4.

[0072] For example, in the table TB2 shown in FIG. 5, “120 (days)” is exemplified as the half-life of the score when editor U1 belonging to the evaluation classification “good” makes an evaluation by “tipping”. Also, in the table TB2 shown in FIG. 5, “60 (days)” is exemplified as the half-life of the score when editor U1 belonging to the evaluation classification “good” makes an evaluation by “liking”.

[0073] Also, for example, in the table TB2 shown in FIG. 5, “7 (days)” is exemplified as the half-life of the score when editor U1 belonging to the evaluation classification “not good” makes an evaluation by “tipping”. Also, in the table TB2 shown in FIG. 5, “1 (day)” is exemplified as the half-life of the score when editor U1 belonging to the evaluation classification “not good” makes an evaluation by “liking”.

[0074] For example, in the table TB2 shown in FIG. 5, “90 (days)” is exemplified as the half-life of the score when the editor U1 belonging to the evaluation category “bad” makes an evaluation by “tipping”. Also, in the table TB2 shown in FIG. 5, “90 (days)” is exemplified as the half-life of the score when the editor U1 belonging to the evaluation category “bad” makes an evaluation by “liking”.

[0075] In the table TB2 shown in FIG. 5, for all roles in common, a longer period is set for the half-life of the score when making an evaluation by “tipping” than the half-life of the score when making an evaluation by “liking”. This is considered in view of the fact that the evaluation by “tipping” involves a financial burden. Also, in the table TB2 shown in FIG. 5, when the evaluation categories are both “good” and the same, a longer period is set for the half-life of the score of the editor U1 than the half-life of the score of the poster U2. This is considered in view of the fact that the editor U1 has a higher contribution to the creation of the graph board GB than the poster U2.

[0076] <2-5. An Example of Score Calculation Method> Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 6, an example of a score calculation method for determining the strength of the graph board GB and the information included in the graph board GB by the information processing apparatus 100 will be described. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the score calculation method according to the embodiment.

[0077] FIG. 6 shows a method for calculating a score corresponding to the strength of claim X. For example, the information processing apparatus 100 acquires the score given to the basis directly connected to claim X which is the object of score calculation. In the example shown in FIG. 6, since basis Y is directly connected to claim X, the information processing apparatus 100 acquires the score “48” given to basis Y.

[0078] Next, the information processing apparatus 100 checks whether there is a counterargument against the basis Y. If there is a counterargument, it acquires the score assigned to this counterargument. In the example shown in FIG. 6, since there is a counterargument Z against the basis Y, the information processing apparatus 100 acquires the score: "50" assigned to the counterargument Z.

[0079] Next, the information processing apparatus 100 checks whether there is a counterargument against the counterargument Z. If there is a counterargument, it acquires the score assigned to this counterargument. In the example shown in FIG. 6, since there is a counterargument Z' against the counterargument Z, it acquires the score: "20" assigned to this counterargument Z'.

[0080] Then, the information processing apparatus 100 calculates the score to be assigned to the claim X based on the acquired scores. For example, the information processing apparatus 100 subtracts the score: "50" assigned to the counterargument Z from the score: "50" assigned to the basis Y, and further adds the score: "20" assigned to the counterargument Z', thereby calculating the score: "18" to be assigned to the claim X.

[0081] Note that in the example of the calculation method described above, the score to be assigned to the claim X is calculated based on the basis directly connected to the claim X, but it is not particularly limited to this example. For example, the information processing apparatus 100 may calculate the score to be assigned to the claim X in consideration of the score assigned to the basis Y' indirectly connected to the claim X, the score assigned to the basis of the counterargument Z, the score assigned to the basis of the counterargument Z', etc. That is, the operator can arbitrarily determine how far to trace the basis indirectly connected to the claim X.

[0082] <2-6. Display mode of the graph board> Hereinafter, the display mode of the graph board according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the graph board according to the embodiment.

[0083] As shown in FIG. 7, the graph board GB generated by the information processing apparatus 100 is hierarchically structured in four layers, namely, the first layer, the second layer, the third layer, and the fourth layer from top to bottom as viewed in FIG. 7. The first layer is a display area for displaying a theme corresponding to the graph board GB (for example, "Vaccinate? Don't vaccinate?"). The second layer is a display area for displaying claims regarding the above-described theme. The third layer is a display area for displaying facts that should be agreed with the above-described claims. The fourth layer is an area for displaying evidence that supports the above-described facts and counterarguments against the evidence. In this way, the information processing apparatus 100 can generate a graph board GB that is hierarchically structured such that information such as claims, facts, and evidence included in the graph board GB is displayed in different layers.

[0084] In addition, the information processing apparatus 100 can generate a graph board GB that reflects the above-described score (strength). For example, the information processing apparatus 100 can change the display position of an object (image) indicating a claim displayed in the second layer based on the above-described score (strength). Specifically, the information processing apparatus 100 raises the display position of the object indicating the claim so that the higher the score, the higher the display position of the image indicating the claim (for example, moving toward the first layer).

[0085] In addition, the information processing apparatus 100 can update the graph board GB so as to change the display mode of objects indicating claims, facts, and evidence based on the above-described score (strength). FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the display mode (part 1) of the graph board according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 8, the information processing apparatus 100 can generate a graph board GB including an image of a balance. In this case, the information processing apparatus 100 compares the scores assigned to facts F1-1 and evidence R1-1 that support claim PA1 ("vaccinate") and the scores assigned to facts F2-1 and evidence R2-1 that support claim PA2 ("don't vaccinate"), and can update the graph board GB so as to reflect the superiority or inferiority of claim PA1 and claim PA2 in the image of the balance. FIG. 8 shows that claim PA2 is superior to claim PA1.

[0086] In addition, the information processing apparatus 100 may update the graph board GB by expressing each piece of information (claims, facts, evidence (counterarguments)) included in the graph board GB in terms of perspective, such that the information closer to the viewer is more dominant. Further, the information processing apparatus 100 may update the graph board GB so as to express the superiority or inferiority of each piece of information by the size of the characters displayed on the graph board GB. Further, the information processing apparatus 100 may update the graph board GB so as to express the superiority or inferiority of each piece of information by the shade of the color of the displayed characters or lines. Further, the information processing apparatus 100 may update the graph board GB so as to express the superiority or inferiority of each piece of information by the brightness of the displayed characters or lines. Further, the information processing apparatus 100 may update the graph board GB so as to express the superiority or inferiority of each piece of information by the thickness of the displayed lines.

[0087] In addition, the information processing apparatus 100 may update the graph board GB so as to express the superiority or inferiority of each piece of information by using "distorted characters" and "distorted lines" for the displayed lines and characters (fonts) (for example, those using "distorted characters" and "distorted lines" are not dominant). Further, the information processing apparatus 100 may update the graph board GB so as to express the superiority or inferiority of each piece of information by the order (speed) of display. Further, the information processing apparatus 100 may update the graph board GB so as to express the superiority or inferiority of each piece of information by the order and speed of movement of the displayed items. Further, the information processing apparatus 100 may update the graph board GB so as to express the superiority or inferiority of each piece of information by using inequality signs.

[0088] In addition, the information processing apparatus 100 may update the graph board GB so as to express the superiority or inferiority of the claims regarding the theme by the shade of the color of the background on which each piece of information is displayed. Further, the information processing apparatus 100 may update the graph board GB so as to express the superiority or inferiority of the claims regarding the theme by the brightness of the color of the background on which each piece of information is displayed. Further, the information processing apparatus 100 may update the graph board GB so as to express the superiority or inferiority of the claims regarding the theme by using a distorted expression (for example, cracked) for the background on which each piece of information is displayed.

[0089] Further, the information processing apparatus 100 may update the graph board GB so as to represent the superiority or inferiority of the claims with respect to the theme according to the shade of the color of the object (such as a scale or a title) representing each piece of information. Further, the information processing apparatus 100 may update the graph board GB so as to represent the superiority or inferiority of the claims with respect to the theme according to the brightness of the color of the object representing each piece of information. Further, the information processing apparatus 100 may update the graph board GB so as to represent the superiority or inferiority of the claims with respect to the theme by using a broken expression (for example, cracked) for the object representing each piece of information.

[0090] Further, when the configuration of the graph board GB becomes complicated, the information processing apparatus 100 may automatically discriminate information that does not affect the superiority or inferiority of the claims, such as absurd facts and grounds (counterarguments), facts and grounds (counterarguments) with extremely poor scores, and facts and grounds (counterarguments) with no scores at all, and delete them from the graph board GB.

[0091] By the way, when the graph board GB is displayed on a smartphone or the like, it may be difficult to display the entire graph board GB at once depending on the size of the display device mounted on the smartphone. Therefore, the information processing apparatus 100 may generate a graph board GB that can be displayed for each claim on different faces of a three-dimensional figure. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a display mode (No. 2) of the graph board according to the embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display mode (No. 3) of the graph board according to the embodiment.

[0092] The information processing apparatus 100 can generate a graph board GB that can display information such as facts and grounds for a claim on different faces of a polyhedron for each claim regarding a theme as a graph board GB displayed on the display 11 of the terminal device 10. For example, FIG. 9 shows an example in which information for each claim is displayed on different faces of a quadrangular prism. A user (such as editor U1, poster U2, viewer U3, etc.) of the terminal device 10 can switch and display information such as facts corresponding to the claims displayed on different faces of the quadrangular prism shown in FIG. 9 and grounds that support the facts by an intuitive operation on the graph board GB.

[0093] By the way, as illustrated in FIG. 9, when information such as facts that should support a claim and grounds that support the claim are displayed on different faces of a polyhedron for each claim regarding a theme and switched and displayed according to a user operation, it becomes difficult to immediately recognize the relative display positions of this information. Therefore, the information processing apparatus 100 may generate a graph board GB including memory information that assists in grasping the display position of an object (image) corresponding to a claim. For example, FIG. 10 shows an example in which each information corresponding to a claim is displayed on different faces of a triangular prism. Also, for example, FIG. 10 shows an example in which memory information G4 that assists in grasping the display position of an object corresponding to a claim is displayed along the side of the triangular prism. Even when a user (such as editor U1, poster U2, viewer U3, etc.) of the terminal device 10 operates the triangular prism shown in FIG. 10 to switch and display information such as facts and grounds corresponding to a claim, by referring to the memory information G4, it becomes easier to grasp the relative display positions of each claim included in the graph board GB. Note that the three-dimensional figure may be a polyhedron such as a quadrangular prism or a triangular prism, or a cylinder or the like.

[0094] (2-7. Regarding the functions provided to the user) Further, the information processing apparatus 100 may change the functions available in the user participation type media according to the evaluation of users (e.g., editor U1 and poster U2) of the user participation type media. For example, the information processing apparatus 100 can determine the editing functions available when editing the graph board GB according to the evaluation of the editing achievements of editor U1. Specifically, the information processing apparatus 100 increases the number of editing functions available to editor U1 as the evaluation of editor U1 increases. Examples of the editing functions that increase with the increase in evaluation include a basis separation function, an arrow (e.g., arrow G1) change function, a labeling function, and the like. The labeling function, exemplified as one of the editing functions, corresponds to a function of attaching a label (e.g., "rumor certified" or "fake certified") to a post when the post content by poster U2 is clearly false information. The labeled information may be visualized so that it can be known that it is "rumor" or "fake", or may be deleted from the graph board GB without being visualized. Note that the information processing apparatus 100 may limit the available editing functions when the value indicating the degree of evaluation of editor U1 does not exceed a predetermined value.

[0095] Also, the information processing apparatus 100 can determine the editing assistance functions available when involved in editing the graph board GB according to the evaluation of the posting achievements of the poster. Specifically, the information processing apparatus 100 increases the number of editing functions available to poster U2 as the evaluation of poster U2 increases. Examples of the editing assistance functions that increase with the increase in evaluation include a function of giving advice on editing (such as correction) of the graph board GB to editor U1 and a function of urging editor U1 to edit the graph board GB. Further, the information processing apparatus 100 may open at least a part of the editing functions available only to editor U1 to poster U2 when the value indicating the degree of evaluation of poster U2 exceeds a predetermined value.

[0096] In addition to "Editor U1", "Poster U2", and "Viewer U3", a "Summarizer" may be provided as a role of the users of user-generated media. When expertise is required for the interpretation of the posted content (such as grounds and counterarguments) posted by Poster U2, the "Summarizer" is responsible for summarizing or explaining the posted content so that the interpretation of the posted content by the participants becomes easier. Also, as described above, the graph board GB is created based on the actions (editing, posting, evaluation, etc.) of each participant on the user-generated media, with the user-generated media provided by the information processing apparatus 100 as a platform. However, the operator who operates the user-generated media may create the graph board GB by themselves. That is, the operator themselves may execute various operations for creating the graph board GB as the above-described Editor U1, Poster U2, Viewer U3 (Evaluator), and Summarizer.

[0097] (2-8. User Merits) (2-8-1. Regarding Editor U1) So far, on SNS and the like, users who disseminate information on a predetermined theme as editors perform editing work for organizing and expressing information on the predetermined theme. For example, when an editor formulates a theme that includes multiple claims (key points of discussion) such as "Get vaccinated? Don't get vaccinated?", the editor collects information on the claim of "getting vaccinated" and the claim of "not getting vaccinated" with respect to the vaccine and organizes the collected information. At this time, the information organized by the editor is often expressed in text, and the editing work is also often performed alone by the editor.

[0098] In contrast, the information processing apparatus 100 can provide the following merits to the editor U1 through the above-described information processing. For example, the information processing apparatus 100 can support the editing work of the editor U1 by providing a common format (see, for example, FIG. 3) for using the collected information in a structured manner. Also, for example, the information processing apparatus 100 can obtain information for generating the graph board GB from many participants. Thereby, the editor U1 can request information from an unspecified number of users. Also, for example, the information processing apparatus 100 can obtain evaluations of the graph board GB and the information included in the graph board GB from many participants. Thereby, the editor U1 can easily allow participants such as the viewer U3 to confirm not only the facts included in the graph board GB and the grounds (counterarguments) supporting the facts, but also their superiority and inferiority, and can provide high-quality information in a shorter time than before. Also, for example, the information processing apparatus 100 can accept donations as evaluations of the facts included in the graph board GB and the grounds (counterarguments) supporting the facts. Thereby, the editor U1 can also attempt to monetize while performing the editing work.

[0099] (2-8-2. Regarding the viewer U3) Also, as a viewer, a user who collects information (for example, papers, articles, programs, posts by experts or laypersons, and information summarizing them, etc.) publicly available on SNS etc. and seeks information for promoting their own decision-making and actions examines the "reliability" of the collected information. For example, when a viewer seeks information about vaccination, the viewer collects information regarding the claim of "getting vaccinated" and then collects information regarding the opposing claim of "not getting vaccinated". Then, the viewer examines the reliability of the collected information for each opposing claim. In this way, when examining the reliability of information for promoting their own decision-making and actions, the viewer collects information individually for each opposing claim.

[0100] On the other hand, the information processing apparatus 100 can provide the following merits to the viewer U3 by the above-described information processing. For example, the information processing apparatus 100 can provide a graph board GB in which a plurality of different claims, facts to be agreed with each claim, and evidence bases (in some cases, counterarguments denying the bases) are logically structured. Thereby, the viewer U3 can, for example, simultaneously grasp a plurality of truths to be agreed with and their bases for a plurality of claims that are in opposition to each other, and can easily confirm information for promoting his / her own decision-making and actions. Also, for example, the information processing apparatus 100 can provide a graph board GB including information indicating the relationship between facts and other facts, the relationship between facts and bases, and the relationship between bases and other bases. Thereby, even if the graph board GB includes a plurality of truths and a plurality of bases, the viewer U3 can easily grasp them without interpreting their relationships. Also, for example, the information processing apparatus 100 can score the graph board GB and the strength of the information included in the graph board GB from many participants, generate a graph board GB reflecting the strength, and provide it to the viewer U3. Thereby, the viewer U3 can easily confirm not only the facts and the bases (counterarguments) supporting the facts included in the graph board GB but also their superiority or inferiority to participants such as the viewer U3, and can make a high-quality decision in a shorter time than before.

[0101] (2-8-3. Regarding the poster U2) Also, as a contributor, a user who posts on a predetermined theme for which information is transmitted by an editor or the like often expresses the content to be posted in words. In contrast, the information processing apparatus 100 can provide the following merits to the contributor U2 by the above-described information processing. For example, the information processing apparatus 100 directly accepts posts from the contributor U2 with respect to the truth and basis that the graph board GB has. Thereby, the contributor U2 can avoid duplication with other posts when posting and can provide high-quality information. Also, the information processing apparatus 100 accepts posts from the contributor U2 in a form other than text input, such as pasting a URL. Thereby, the contributor U2 can post more simply than posting by means of an SNS or the like. Also, for example, the information processing apparatus 100 can accept donations as an evaluation of the facts and the basis (counterarguments) that support the facts included in the graph board GB. Thereby, the contributor U2 can seek to monetize while performing the posting work.

[0102] [3. Configuration of Information Processing Apparatus] The configuration of the information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 11. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the information processing apparatus according to the embodiment.

[0103] As shown in FIG. 11, the information processing apparatus 100 includes a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130. Note that FIG. 11 shows a configuration example of the information processing apparatus 100, and the form is not limited to the form shown in FIG. 11, and a form including other functional units other than those shown in FIG. 11 may be used.

[0104] (Communication Unit 110) The communication unit 110 is connected to the network N, for example, either wired or wirelessly, and transmits and receives information to and from other devices such as the terminal device 10 via the network N. The communication unit 110 is realized, for example, by a NIC (Network Interface Card), an antenna, or the like. The network N is a communication network such as a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), a telephone network (such as a mobile phone network or a fixed phone network), a regional IP (Internet Protocol) network, or the Internet. The network N may include a wired network or a wireless network.

[0105] For example, the communication unit 110 transmits and receives various types of information related to the processing of user-participation media to and from the terminal device 10.

[0106] (Memory unit 120) The memory unit 120 is realized, for example, by a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. The memory unit 120 stores programs and data for realizing the information processing executed by each part of the control unit 130.

[0107] As shown in FIG. 3, the memory unit 120 includes a table information storage unit 121, a post information storage unit 122, a user information storage unit 123, and a content storage unit 124.

[0108] (Table information storage unit 121) The table information storage unit 121 stores information of a score determination table (see, for example, FIGS. 4 and 5) defined in advance to assign a score indicating the intensity of the graph board GB and the information included in the graph board GB.

[0109] (Post information storage unit 122) The contribution information storage unit 122 stores contribution information submitted by participants of the user participation type media. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an outline of the contribution information according to the embodiment.

[0110] As shown in FIG. 12, the contribution information stored in the contribution information storage unit 122 has an item of "theme name", an item of "user ID", an item of "contribution ID", an item of "contribution type", an item of "contribution content", an item of "connection destination", and an item of "score". These items included in the contribution information are associated with each other.

[0111] In the item of "theme name", information indicating the theme name (for example, "Get vaccinated? Don't get vaccinated?") submitted by a participant of the user participation type media is stored. This theme name corresponds to the information set by the editor U1 on the content setting screen W1 (see FIG. 2), for example. Note that, instead of the information indicating the theme name, information that can uniquely identify the theme name may be stored in the item of "theme name".

[0112] In the item of "user ID", identification information (user ID) for identifying a participant of the user participation type media is stored. This identification information is individually assigned by the information processing apparatus 100 to each participant at the time of use registration of the user participation type media or the like.

[0113] In the item of "contribution ID", identification information (contribution ID) for identifying the contribution information is stored. This identification information is individually assigned by the information processing apparatus 100 at the time of registration of the contribution information.

[0114] In the item of "contribution type", information indicating whether the contribution content corresponds to a basis or a counterargument is stored. For example, this information indicating the type may be automatically recorded according to the operation content of the icon G2 provided for each information included on the graph board GB.

[0115] In the "destination" field, identification information for identifying the information that is the target of the post is stored. For example, in the "destination" field, the identification information (post ID) assigned to the information provided with the icon G2 operated by the poster is stored.

[0116] In the "evaluation content" field, information indicating the content of the evaluation received for each piece of information included on the graph board GB is stored. For example, as information indicating the content of the evaluation, information such as the total number of "likes" posted and the total amount of donations is assumed.

[0117] (User information storage unit 123) In the user information storage unit 123, information for specifying the role of a participant in a user participation-type media is stored. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an overview of user information according to an embodiment.

[0118] As shown in FIG. 13, the user information stored in the user information storage unit 123 has fields such as a "user ID" field, a "role" field, and a "corresponding information ID" field. These fields of the user information are associated with each other.

[0119] In the "user ID" field, identification information for specifying the role of a participant in a user participation-type media is stored. This identification information corresponds to the identification information stored in the "user ID" field of the post information.

[0120] In the "Role" item, information indicating the role that the participants in the user-generated media played when creating the graph board GB is stored. For example, for a participant who proposed a theme through the theme setting screen W2 (see, for example, FIG. 2), 'Editor' is automatically assigned as the role in the corresponding graph board GB. Also, for example, for a participant who made a post for a publicly available theme through the post input screen W4 (see, for example, FIG. 2), 'Poster' is automatically assigned as the role in the corresponding graph board GB. Also, for example, for a participant who evaluated each piece of information through the icon G2 provided for each piece of information on the graph board GB, 'Viewer' is automatically assigned as the role in the corresponding graph board GB.

[0121] In the "Corresponding Information ID" item, identification information for specifying the corresponding graph board GB is stored. This identification information is individually assigned by the information processing apparatus 100 when the graph board GB is generated.

[0122] (Content storage unit 124) The content storage unit 124 stores content information regarding the graph board GB generated by the information processing apparatus 100. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an overview of the content information according to the embodiment.

[0123] As shown in FIG. 14, the content information stored in the content storage unit 124 has items such as an "Information ID" item, a "Theme Information" item, a "Claim Information" item, a "Fact Information" item, a "Basis Information" item, a "Relevance Information" item, a "Score Information" item, etc. These items included in the content information are associated with each other.

[0124] In the "Information ID" item, identification information for specifying the graph board GB is stored. This identification information is individually assigned by the information processing apparatus 100 when the graph board GB is generated.

[0125] In the item of "theme information", information regarding themes formulated by 'editors' who participate in user-participation media is stored. Further, the information stored in the item of "theme information" includes identification information for specifying the theme.

[0126] In the item of "assertion information", information set by 'editors' is stored as assertions regarding the themes stored in the item of "theme information". Further, the information stored in the item of "assertion information" includes identification information for specifying the assertion.

[0127] In the item of "fact information", information set by 'editors' is stored as facts that should support the assertions stored in the item of "assertion information". Further, the information stored in the item of "fact information" includes identification information for specifying the fact.

[0128] In the item of "basis information", information submitted by participants (e.g., 'editors' or 'contributors') of user-participation media is stored as the basis for supporting the facts stored in the item of "fact information", or as counterarguments against the facts or the basis. Further, the information stored in the item of "basis information" includes identification information for specifying the basis.

[0129] In the item of "relationship information", information edited by 'editors' is stored as information indicating the relationships between each information (facts, basis, counterarguments) included in the graph board GB. For example, the information indicating the relationships includes information such as facts and basis information connected to each other using arrows (e.g., arrow G1), information indicating the direction of the arrows, and text information representing the relationships between the facts and basis connected to each other.

[0130] In the item of "score information", scores indicating the strength of each information (facts, basis, counterarguments) included in the graph board GB or the graph board GB are stored. These scores are assigned based on evaluations from participants of user-participation media.

[0131] (Control unit 130) The control unit 130 shown in FIG. 11 is a controller that controls the information processing apparatus 100. The control unit 130 is realized by various programs (for example, information processing programs) stored in the storage device inside the information processing apparatus 100 being executed with the RAM as a work area by a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), etc. Further, the control unit 130 may be realized by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0132] As shown in FIG. 11, the control unit 130 includes a reception unit 131, a scoring unit 132, a first determination unit 133, a second determination unit 134, a generation unit 135, and a provision unit 136. The control unit 130 realizes or executes the information processing functions and operations described below through these units. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 130 is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 11, and may be other configurations as long as they can perform the information processing described later. Also, the connection relationships of the units included in the control unit 130 are not limited to the connection relationships shown in FIG. 11, and may be other connection relationships.

[0133] (Reception Unit 131) The reception unit 131 receives from the users of the user participation type media submissions of facts that should agree with the claims regarding a predetermined theme or the grounds that support the facts. The reception unit 131 records submission information regarding the received submissions in the submission information storage unit 122.

[0134] In addition, the reception unit 131 receives from the users of the user participation type media evaluations of each piece of information included in the graph board GB. The reception unit 131 records evaluation information regarding the received evaluations in the submission information storage unit 122.

[0135] (Scoring Unit 132) The scoring unit 132 scores the strength of each piece of information included in the graph board GB based on an evaluation of the information (such as facts and evidence (counterarguments)) that the graph board GB has.

[0136] For example, when the scoring unit 132 receives an evaluation of the information that the graph board GB has, it can score the strength of the information that the graph board GB has based on the editing record of the editor U1. Specifically, the scoring unit 132, in association with an evaluation category defined in advance according to the editing record of the editor U1 and the action content when an evaluation of the information included in the graph board GB is performed, can score the strength of the information that the graph board GB has based on the score defined in advance in the score determination table TB1 (see, for example, FIG. 4).

[0137] Also, for example, the scoring unit 132, in association with an evaluation category defined in advance according to the posting record of the poster U2 who posts information that the graph board GB has and the action content when an evaluation of the information is performed, can score the strength of the information that the graph board GB has based on the score defined in advance in the score determination table TB1 (see, for example, FIG. 4).

[0138] Also, for example, the scoring unit 132, in association with the action content when a viewer who views the visualization information evaluates the information, can score the strength of the information that the graph board GB has based on the score defined in advance in the score determination table TB1 (see, for example, FIG. 4).

[0139] Also, for example, the scoring unit 132 can reduce the score indicating the strength of the information that the graph board GB has over time based on the half-life defined in the score determination table TB2 (see, for example, FIG. 5).

[0140] (First decision unit 133) The first decision-making unit 133 determines the editing functions available to the editor U1 when editing the graph board GB according to the evaluation of the editing performance of the editor U1 who edits the graph board GB. For example, as the evaluation of the editor U1 increases, the first decision-making unit 133 increases the number of available editing functions.

[0141] (Second decision-making unit 134) The second decision-making unit 134 determines the editing assistance functions available to the poster U2 when involved in editing the graph board GB according to the evaluation of the posting performance of the poster U2 who posts on the graph board GB. For example, as the evaluation of the poster U2 increases, the second decision-making unit 134 increases the number of available editing assistance functions.

[0142] (Generation unit 135) The generation unit 135 generates a graph board GB (an example of "visualized information") that visualizes information including logically structured facts and grounds by means of illustration. For example, the generation unit 135 can generate a graph board GB including facts and grounds for each of a plurality of different claims. Also, for example, the generation unit 135 can generate a graph board GB including information indicating the relationship between a fact and other facts, the relationship between a fact and a ground, and the relationship between a ground and other grounds.

[0143] Also, the generation unit 135 can generate a graph board GB capable of displaying information on different faces of a polyhedron for each claim. Also, for example, the generation unit 135 can generate a hierarchically structured graph board GB such that claims, facts, and grounds are displayed at different hierarchies respectively.

[0144] Further, for example, the generation unit 135 can generate a graph board GB that visualizes the intensity scored by the scoring unit 132. Specifically, the generation unit 135 can change the display position of the object (image) indicating the claim in the graph board GB or change the display mode of each object indicating the claim, fact, and basis of the graph board GB based on the intensity. Further, the generation unit 135 can generate a graph board GB including memory information that assists in grasping the display position of the object indicating the claim.

[0145] (Provision unit 136) The provision unit 136 can provide the graph board GB to the requesting participant in response to a request from a participant of the user participation type media.

[0146] [4. Processing procedure] Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 15, the processing procedure by the information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure by the information processing apparatus according to the embodiment. The processing procedure shown in FIG. 15 is executed by the control unit 130 of the information processing apparatus 100. The processing procedure shown in FIG. 15 is repeatedly executed during the operation of the information processing apparatus 100.

[0147] As shown in FIG. 15, the reception unit 131 receives a submission of a fact that should support a claim regarding a predetermined theme or a basis that supports the fact (step S101).

[0148] Further, the generation unit 135 generates a graph board GB that visualizes information in which facts that should support a claim regarding a predetermined theme and a basis (or counterargument) that supports the fact are logically structured by the editing work of the editor U1 (step S102).

[0149] Further, the provision unit 136 provides the graph board GB generated in step S102 in response to a request from a participant of the user participation type media (step S103), and ends the processing procedure shown in FIG. 15.

[0150] [5. Modification example] The information processing apparatus 100 described above may be implemented in various different forms other than the above-described embodiments. Therefore, variations of the embodiments will be described below.

[0151] (5-1. Participating User Authentication Function) In the above-described embodiment, the information processing apparatus 100 may have a function for authenticating (limiting) the poster U2 who receives a post, the viewer U3, the summarizer, and the like. For example, when a theme related to the medical field is established, an expert in the medical field or a person with a deep interest in the medical field as an interest / hobby is authenticated as the poster U2, the viewer U3, the summarizer, and the like. Thereby, the information processing apparatus 100 can enable only the poster U2 having expertise in the established theme to post, or enable only the summarizer having expertise in this theme to summarize and explain the posted content, so that the participants involved in the established theme can be limited. That is, all the participants involved in the generation of the graph board GB can be limited. This function may be provided to the editor U1 as part of the editing function by the operator of the user participation type media (administrator of the information processing apparatus 100) according to the evaluation degree of the editor U1. Alternatively, the information processing apparatus 100 may preset, for each category for classifying the established theme, the role that each service user can assume based on the personal information associated with the service user of the user participation type media so that the role of the service user is automatically assigned according to the theme established by the editor U1.

[0152] (5-2. Filtering Function) In the above-described embodiment, the information processing apparatus 100 may perform filtering on the evaluations posted for the basis (or counterargument) under certain conditions. For example, when a theme of "Should the pension system be maintained?" is established, if a person is 60 years old or older, there will be more supporters for the claim of "should be maintained (YES)", and if a person is under 30 years old, it is expected that there will be more supporters for the claim of "should not be maintained (NO)". That is, there are themes whose claims are covered depending on the perspective (position) of the viewer U3 who views the theme. Therefore, the information processing apparatus 100 filters a plurality of posted evaluations based on, for example, the filtering conditions specified by the viewer U3, and provides the viewer 3 with a graph board GB that reflects the filtering result. For example, in the above-described theme of "Should the pension system be maintained?", if there is a specification of filtering conditions to reflect the evaluations of viewers under 30 years old from the viewer U3, the generation unit 135 executes filtering of the evaluations so as to reflect only the evaluations of viewers under 30 years old, generates a graph board GB that reflects the filtering result, and can provide it to the viewer U3. The conditions for performing the above-described filtering can be set based on gender, age, region, occupation, employment form, annual income, ideology, and the like.

[0153] In this way, the information processing apparatus 100 can provide the viewer U3 with a graph board GB that reflects the evaluations of people who desire a decision-making (people who want to solve their troubles and people who want to give an answer to the theme) and people with similar personalities and circumstances. As a result, the information processing apparatus 100 can realize the provision of services along the perspective of the viewer U3, and can further improve the usability.

[0154] [6. Hardware Configuration] The information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment is realized by, for example, a computer 1000 having a configuration as shown in FIG. 16. FIG. 16 is a hardware configuration diagram showing an example of a computer that realizes the functions of the information processing apparatus according to the embodiment.

[0155] Computer 1000 is connected to an output device 1010 and an input device 1020, and has a configuration in which an arithmetic unit 1030, a primary storage device 1040, a secondary storage device 1050, an output IF (Interface) 1060, an input IF 1070, and a network IF 1080 are connected by a bus 1090.

[0156] The arithmetic unit 1030 operates based on programs stored in the primary storage device 1040 or the secondary storage device 1050, programs read from the input device 1020, etc., and executes various processes. The primary storage device 1040 is a memory device that primarily stores data used by the arithmetic unit 1030 for various operations, such as RAM. Also, the secondary storage device 1050 is a storage device in which data used by the arithmetic unit 1030 for various operations and various databases are registered, and is realized by a ROM (Read Only Memory), HDD, flash memory, etc.

[0157] The output IF 1060 is an interface for transmitting information to be output to an output device 1010 that outputs various types of information, such as a monitor or a printer, and is realized by a connector of a standard such as USB (Universal Serial Bus), DVI (Digital Visual Interface), HDMI (registered trademark) (High Definition Multimedia Interface). Also, the input IF 1070 is an interface for receiving information from various input devices 1020, such as a mouse, a keyboard, and a scanner, and is realized by, for example, USB or the like.

[0158] Note that the input device 1020 may be a device that reads information from an optical recording medium such as a CD (Compact Disc), DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), PD (Phase change rewritable Disk), a magneto-optical recording medium such as an MO (Magneto-Optical disk), a tape medium, a magnetic recording medium, or a semiconductor memory. Also, the input device 1020 may be an external storage medium such as a USB memory.

[0159] The network interface 1080 receives data from other devices via the network N and sends it to the arithmetic unit 1030, and also sends the data generated by the arithmetic unit 1030 via the network N to other devices.

[0160] The arithmetic unit 1030 controls the output device 1010 and the input device 1020 via the output interface 1060 and the input interface 1070. For example, the arithmetic unit 1030 loads a program from the input device 1020 or the secondary storage device 1050 onto the primary storage device 1040 and executes the loaded program.

[0161] For example, when the computer 1000 functions as the information processing apparatus 100, the arithmetic unit 1030 of the computer 1000 realizes the same functions as the control unit 130 by executing a program (for example, an information processing program) loaded onto the primary storage device 1040. That is, the arithmetic unit 1030 realizes the processing by the information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment in cooperation with a program (for example, an information processing program) loaded onto the primary storage device 1040.

[0162] [7. Others] Among the respective processes described in the above-described embodiment, all or part of the processes described as being automatically performed can be manually performed, or all or part of the processes described as being manually performed can be automatically performed by a known method. In addition, regarding the processing procedures, specific names, and information including various data and parameters shown in the above document and drawings, they can be arbitrarily changed unless otherwise specified.

[0163] In the above-described embodiment, in order to realize the information processing method by the information processing apparatus 100 (see, for example, FIG. 15), the processing functions corresponding to the respective parts of the control unit 130 (reception unit 131, scoring unit 132, first determination unit 133, second determination unit 134, generation unit 135, and provision unit 136) included in the information processing apparatus 100 may be realized as an add-on to an information processing program pre-installed in the information processing apparatus 100, or may be realized by flexibly describing them as a dedicated information processing program using a lightweight programming language or the like.

[0164] Also, each component of each device shown in the drawings is conceptually functional, and does not necessarily have to be physically configured as shown in the drawings. That is, the specific form of distribution and integration of each device is not limited to that shown in the drawings, and all or part of them can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in arbitrary units according to various loads, usage situations, etc. For example, the first determination unit 133 and the second determination unit 134 of the control unit 130 may be functionally integrated.

[0165] Also, the above-described embodiments and modification examples can be appropriately combined as long as the processing contents do not conflict.

[0166] [8. Effects] The information processing apparatus 100 according to the above-described embodiment includes a reception unit 131, a generation unit 135, and a provision unit 136. The reception unit 131 receives from the user a posting of facts that should support a claim regarding a predetermined theme, or evidence that supports the facts. The generation unit 135 generates visualization information that can display information including logically structured facts and evidence on different faces of a three-dimensional figure for each claim. The provision unit 136 provides the visualization information in response to a request from the user. Also, the generation unit 135 generates visualization information that can display information on different faces of a polyhedron for each claim.

[0167] From the above, the information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment can be configured to be able to display by borrowing and replacing the information and the logical structure of the information obtained from an unspecified number of users for each claim regarding a predetermined theme, and can realize high-quality information presentation for prompting the user's decision-making and actions regardless of the terminal device used by the user.

[0168] Further, in the information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment, the generation unit 135 generates visualization information hierarchized so that claims, facts, and grounds are displayed in different hierarchies respectively. Thereby, it is possible to support the user's intuitive understanding of the information.

[0169] Further, the information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment further includes a scoring unit 132 that scores the strength of information based on the evaluation of the information included in the visualization information. And the generation unit 135 generates visualization information visualized so as to reflect the strength. Thereby, it is possible to support the user's intuitive understanding of the superiority and inferiority of the information.

[0170] Further, in the information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment, the generation unit 135 changes the display position of the claim in the visualization information based on the strength. Thereby, the information processing apparatus 100 can support the user's intuitive understanding of the superiority and inferiority among a plurality of claims included in the visualization information.

[0171] Further, in the information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment, the generation unit 135 changes the display modes of the claim, the fact, and the ground based on the strength. Thereby, the information processing apparatus 100 can support the user's intuitive understanding of the superiority and inferiority among a plurality of claims, facts, and grounds included in the visualization information.

[0172] Further, in the information processing apparatus 100 according to the embodiment, the generation unit 135 generates visualization information including scale information for assisting in grasping the display position of the claim. It is possible to support the accurate grasping of the display positions of a plurality of claims included in the visualization information.

[0173] As described above, the embodiments of the present application have been described in detail with reference to several drawings. However, these are merely examples, and the present invention can be implemented in other forms with various modifications and improvements based on the knowledge of those skilled in the art, including the aspects described in the column of the disclosure of the invention.

[0174] Also, the "section (section, module, unit)" described above can be read as "means", "circuit", etc. For example, the control section can be read as a control means or a control circuit.

Description of Reference Numerals

[0175] 10 Terminal device 100 Information processing device 110 Communication section 120 Storage section 121 User information storage section 122 Estimation model storage section 130 Control section 131 Selection section 132 Identification section 133 Evaluation section

Claims

1. a reception unit that receives from a user a submission of facts that should support a claim regarding a predetermined theme, or evidence that supports said facts; a generation unit that generates visualization information capable of displaying information including said logically structured facts and evidence on different faces of a three-dimensional figure for each said claim; a provision unit that provides said visualization information in response to a request from a user and wherein said generation unit generates said visualization information hierarchically such that said claim, said facts, and said evidence are each displayed at different levels. An information processing apparatus characterized by the above.

2. Said generation unit generates said visualization information capable of displaying said information on different faces of a polyhedron for each said claim. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by the above.

3. further comprising a scoring unit that scores the strength of said information based on an evaluation of the information included in said visualization information, and wherein said generation unit generates said visualization information visualized so as to reflect said strength. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the above.

4. Said generation unit changes the display position of said claim in said visualization information based on said strength. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, characterized by the above.

5. Said generation unit changes the display mode of said claim, said facts, and said evidence based on said strength. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3 or 4, characterized by the above.

6. Said generation unit generates said visualization information including scale information that assists in grasping the display position of said claim. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5, characterized by the above.

7. An information processing method executed by a computer, the method comprising: a reception step of receiving from a user a submission of facts that should support a claim regarding a predetermined theme, or evidence that supports said facts; a generation step of generating visualization information capable of displaying information including said logically structured facts and evidence on different faces of a three-dimensional figure for each said claim; a provision step of providing said visualization information in response to a request from a user and wherein said generation step generates said visualization information hierarchically such that said claim, said facts, and said evidence are each displayed at different levels. An information processing method characterized by the above.

8. Causing a computer to perform a reception procedure of receiving from a user a submission of facts that should support a claim regarding a predetermined theme, or evidence that supports said facts; A generation procedure for generating visualization information capable of displaying information including the logically structured facts and grounds on different faces of a three-dimensional figure for each of the claims, and a provision procedure for providing the visualization information in response to a request from a user are executed, wherein the generation procedure generates the visualization information hierarchically such that the claims, the facts, and the grounds are displayed in different hierarchies An information processing program characterized by the above.

Images