# Arguing for Decisions: A Qualitative Model of Decision Making

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/1302.3560 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/1302.3560/

## Key facts

- Cited by 2 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- First posted on arXiv 13 Feb 2013.

## Built on by (most cited first, 2 of 2)

- [A Framework for Inherently Interpretable Optimization Models](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2208.12570/) (2022)
- [Position: We Need Practical AI Alignment Methods to Mirror Human Reasoning](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2608.12372/) (2026)

## Abstract (arXiv)

We develop a qualitative model of decision making with two aims: to describe how people make simple decisions and to enable computer programs to do the same. Current approaches based on Planning or Decisions Theory either ignore uncertainty and tradeoffs, or provide languages and algorithms that are too complex for this task. The proposed model provides a language based on rules, a semantics based on high probabilities and lexicographical preferences, and a transparent decision procedure where reasons for and against decisions interact. The model is no substitude for Decision Theory, yet for decisions that people find easy to explain it may provide an appealing alternative.