The model of the factor of significance of goal-directed decision making

Abstract

From the position of systemic-structural activity theory, this paper presents a critique of prospect theory as a descriptive model of decision-making under risk and uncertainty and develops an alternative model, which is called the significance model. This model is psychologically determined and reflects the emotionally evaluative mechanism of goal-directed decision making where attractiveness of the goal and the uncertainty (subjective difficulties) of attaining it should be taken into consideration. Based on the suggested significance model, a mobile decision making software application – Express Decision, was constructed. The paper illustrates how Express Decision can be implemented in the analysis of a pilot’s decisions within the context of an aviation accident.