Making Choices
A Recasting of Decision Theory

This book, first published in 1997, is an introductory overview of decision theory.

Frederic Schick (Author)

9780521581813, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 13 February 1997

174 pages
22.4 x 14.5 x 1.9 cm, 0.405 kg

'… this was a succinct and well-written book, keeping the reader's attention throughout. Anyone with an interest in decision-making will undoubtedly develop a deepter and more appreciate understanding of the many issues and problems involved in this area of study.' The Philosopher's Magazine

This book, first published in 1997, is an introductory overview of decision theory. It is completely non-technical, without a single formula in the book. Written in a crisp and clear style it succinctly covers the full range of philosophical issues of rationality and decision theory, including game theory, social choice theory, prisoner's dilemma and much else. The book aims to expand the scope and enrich the foundations of decision theory. By addressing such issues as ambivalence, inner conflict, and the constraints imposed upon us by our attachments to others, Frederic Schick reveals that our thinking is often more subtle than standard theories of rationality allow. Only a theory that respects that subtlety can illumine what is otherwise puzzling. The book contains many examples drawn from history and literature dealing with subjects such as love, war, friendship, and crime.

1. Difficult choices
2. Having reasons
3. Rationality
4. Shaping up
5. Other people
6. Social choice
7. Choosing right.

Subject Areas: Philosophy: logic [HPL]