Criticisms and Limitations of Decision-Aiding Approaches

Abstract

This chapter explores the basic criticisms that have been directed at formal decision-aiding approaches. The purpose of presenting these criticisms is not to suggest that formal approaches have little value, but to provide the reader with an improved awareness of the limitations of formal analysis. Such information can help indicate when certain approaches can be appropriately applied, how much precision and reliability can be expected in the results, what the nature is of any existing controversy surrounding the use of an approach, and what questions should be asked about the methodology in examining the results of any application. This knowledge is not only essential to making informed judgments about the comparative value of alternative approaches, it is also essential to making informed decisions based on the application of a formal approach.