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Abstract
<p class="first" id="d1538969e67">Inconclusive decisions, deciding not to decide,
are decisions. We present a cognitive
model which takes into account that decisions are an outcome of interactions and intersections
between the actual data and human cognition. Using this model it is suggested under
which circumstances inconclusive decisions are justified and even warranted (reflecting
proper caution and meta-cognitive abilities in recognizing limited abilities), and,
conversely, under what circumstances inconclusive decisions are unjustifiable and
should not be permitted. The model further explores the limitations and problems in
using categorical decision-making when the data are actually a continuum. Solutions
are suggested within the forensic fingerprinting domain, but they can be applied to
other forensic domains, and, with modifications, may also be applied to other expert
domains.
</p>