Updates
🌟 August 2026 Issue Published: New research articles now available in our latest journal issue. Discover cutting-edge findings. Read More 📢 Call for Papers: October 2026: Submit your research for peer review. Open access publishing with global visibility. Read More 🚀 Continental Scholarly Publications: Join our new multidisciplinary research journal platform. Publishing excellence since 2024. Read More 🎯 Special Issue: Digital Health: Call for papers on digital health innovations. Submission deadline: September 15 Read More 💼 Early Career Researcher Support: Special mentorship program and reduced fees for PhD candidates and new researchers. Read More 🔬 New Research Areas Open: Now accepting submissions in AI Ethics, Climate Science, and Public Health Innovation. Read More 🌐 Global Academic Network: Connect with researchers from 65+ countries through Continental Scholarly Publications. Read More ⏰ Fast-Track Peer Review: Accelerated review process available. Get decisions within 3 weeks. Read More

Journal of Multidisciplinary Agricultural Research

Peer-Reviewed Academic Journal
Research Article

RISK, UNCERTAINTY, AND DECISION MAKING: A CRITICAL CONCEPTUAL AND MATHEMATICAL EXAMINATION

Authors & Affiliations
M.J. Alhabeeb, Ph.D.
Professor, Department of Resource Economics, University of Massachusetts Amherst, MA, USA
Published: January 6, 2025
Volume 12, Issue 4 (2024)
Article ID: 804
Peer-Reviewed
Open Access
Abstract

The concepts of risk and uncertainty have long been used interchangeably, leading to confusion and undesired outcomes in decision making. Despite the extensive research in this field, the distinction between these terms and related constructs is often overlooked. In fact, a study by De Groot and Thurik (2018) revealed that 88.3% of articles did not adhere to this distinction, which has led to contaminated literature and erroneous conclusions. Thus, this paper aims to differentiate the concepts of risk and uncertainty and other related constructs, such as ambiguity and probability, in financial and managerial decision making. A conceptual and mathematical analysis is presented, supported by numerical applications. The focus is on risk, as it is directly related to the success or failure of decisions. By providing a clear understanding of these concepts, decision makers can better assess the degree of certainty, estimate the level of risk and uncertainty, and make informed decisions. This paper contributes to the literature by providing a comprehensive analysis of related constructs in decision making, which can help avoid confusion and ensure more accurate theoretical and empirical findings.

Full-Text Access

Open-access article — free to read and share.

Publish Your Research in This Journal

Continental Scholarly Publications applies rigorous double-blind peer review to every submission. Our expert editorial board ensures your work meets the highest standards of scholarship before reaching an international readership.

Double-Blind Review Global Indexing Fast Turnaround Open Access DOI Assigned Wide Readership
Submit a Manuscript