ABSTRACT
In cognitive and practical contexts alike, even the most rational of problem solutions can misfire with situations of incomplete information. It is clear that the rationally appropriate approach in any situation of problem solving—be it cognitive or practical—is to strive for the best resolution achievable in the light of the available data. In cognitive and practical contexts alike, even the most rational of problem-solutions can misfire in situations of incomplete information. Rationality enjoins us to adopt the optimal option: having surveyed the range of alternatives, the appropriate thing to do is to resolve the choice between them in what is, all considered, the overall most favorable way. Rational action encounters serious challenges in a complex world. For in such a world the information at the disposal of limited beings is bound to be incomplete, and in situations of imperfect information their very rationality can lead rational agents into difficulty.
