Metacognition of value-based decisions

Armand, Oriane (2024): Metacognition of value-based decisions. Dissertation, LMU München: Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences (GSN)

Abstract

Heroes inspire us by staying true to their values, even under pressure. This ability reflects coherence between decisions and intentions, especially in value-based decisions that rely on subjective preferences. Metacognition, the ability to monitor and control one’s decision, helps ensure this coherence. However, its role in moral or complex value-based decisions remains unclear. How does subjective value contribute to our understanding of the function and computation of metacognition? This interdisciplinary thesis develops a conceptual framework positioning metacognition as a “reliability thermostat” that adjusts effort to maintain a desired level of coherence. It argues that value-based monitoring is integral to metacognition, aiding learning and contextual reliability assessments. Empirical findings support this model as in value-based decision, confidence increases in accuracy with learning (detaching from theory of mind) and tracks coherence with subjective moral values. Additionally, individuals seem to exhibit consistent metacognitive profiles across value domains, supporting its general role as a bounded reliability thermostat. By framing metacognition around subjective value and coherence, the thesis opens pathways for applications in social autonomy and therapies aimed at enhancing or restoring cognitive functions. It positions value-based metacognition as vital for fostering responsibility and empowering agents at both personal and societal levels.

• Dokumententyp: Dissertationen (Dissertation, LMU München)
• Keywords: Metacognition, value, decision, confidence, learning, reflection, choice
• Themengebiete: 500 Naturwissenschaften und Mathematik ; 500 Naturwissenschaften und Mathematik > 570 Biowissenschaften, Biologie
• Fakultäten: Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences (GSN)
• Sprache der Hochschulschrift: Englisch
• Datum der mündlichen Prüfung: 8. Februar 2024
• 1. Bericht­erstatter:in: Deroy, Ophelia