Which of the following is an example of a simple reflex agent?

A thermostat is indeed a classic example of a simple reflex agent. Such agents operate based on a set of fixed rules that dictate responses to specific environmental stimuli. In the case of a thermostat, its function is straightforward: it senses the temperature in a room and activates or deactivates heating or cooling systems based on predetermined thresholds. This simple cause-and-effect relationship embodies the essence of a reflex agent – responding directly to immediate conditions without requiring complex decision-making or learning.

The other options involve more complex operations or decision-making processes. For instance, a calendar assistant manages tasks, appointments, and reminders based on user interactions and rules, requiring a greater level of cognitive processing. A multi-step job search assistant would typically involve various tasks and interactions beyond immediate stimuli, as it helps users navigate an entire job search process. A research agent extensively analyzes data or information for specific insights, involving extended reasoning and various decision paths based on different parameters.

Therefore, the thermostat stands out as the only example in this context of a simple reflex agent due to its direct and reactive nature.