Complexity Classifications via Algebraic Logic

Abstract

<p>Complexity and decidability of logics is an active research area involving a wide range of different logical systems. We introduce an algebraic approach to complexity classifications of computational logics. Our base system GRA, or general relation algebra, is equiexpressive with first-order logic FO. It resembles cylindric algebra but employs a finite signature with only seven different operators, thus also giving a very succinct characterization of the expressive capacities of first-order logic. We provide a comprehensive classification of the decidability and complexity of the systems obtained by limiting the allowed sets of operators of GRA. We also discuss variants and extensions of GRA, and we provide algebraic characterizations of a range of well-known decidable logics.</p>