Philosophy of science of decision making - Malvina Ongaro (Jan 23)

Malvina Ongaro (Politecnico di Milano)

Dear All,   

You're cordially invited to the next installment of the Philosophy of Science of Decision Making seminar series.   

Speaker: Malvina Ongaro (Politecnico di Milano)  

Title: “Decision-making for the management of natural risks”  

Date: 23 January 2026, 14:00 (CET / GMT+1)

Format: Online, in English  

Abstract: The category of natural risks comprises events that differ widely in terms of their predictability, spatial scale, temporal horizon, and type of impacts. Managing these risks includes a variety of possible measures, which may act on prevention or on reconstruction, during the emergency or at peacetime. Due to all this complexity, decision contexts in the management of natural risks can vary significantly, and require different approaches. Thus, decision-making for natural risks management needs a significant degree of flexibility and adaptability. Due to the rigidity of their assumptions, formal decision-supporting instruments like cost-benefit analysis or multi-criteria analysis are not well-equipped to fully determine this type of decision. On the other hand, however, lack of standardized guidance makes very consequential decisions like these susceptible to a "defensive" approach from the decision-makers, who may have the incentive to prioritize avoiding any personal liability over the optimization of social risk reduction. We need to construct a rich toolbox of principles and instruments that can guide natural risks management and help decision-makers make rational decisions for the social good.  

Registration: If you would like to join this seminar and have not previously registered, please send an email to [email protected] with the subject line "PhilSciDec". Video links will be shared only with those who register at least 24 hrs in advance of the seminar.

Info: For more information about the seminar series, including future speakers and topics, please visit the website below.