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Is Decision Theory Really Agnostic about Processes?

tension

ok, so what is this tension?

The range of applications of Decision Theory shows it is agnostic about processes.

Dickinson’s instrumental process is characterised by appeal to Decision Theory.

So why does decision theory play a role in characterising instrumental processes?

habitual

Action occurs in the presence of Stimulus.

Agent is rewarded [/punished]

Stimulus-Action Link is strengthened [/weakened] due to reward [/punishment]

Given Stimulus, will Action occur? It depends on the strength of the Stimulus-Action Link.

instrumental

Action leads to Outcome.

Action-Outcome Link is strengthened.

Agent has strong [/weak] positive [/negative] Preference for Outcome

Will Action occur? It depends on the strength of Action-Outcome Link and Agent’s Preference.

This is like an expectation (or a belief)

How are these combined? In such a way as to maximise expected utility!

The range of applications of Decision Theory shows it is agnostic about processes.

Dickinson’s instrumental process is characterised by appeal to Decision Theory.

Before I resolve these tensions, I wanted to consider decision theory vs game theory. Done that now.

So how can we resolve the tensions? I think the key is to step back and think of Game theory as a model