Behavioural and heuristic models are as-if models too – and that’s ok

Abstract I examine some behavioural and heuristic models of individual decision-making argue that the diverse psychological mechanisms these posit are too demanding to be implemented, either consciously or unconsciously, by actual decision makers. Accordingly, contrary what their advocates typically claim, best understood as ‘as-if’ models. then sketch a version scientific antirealism justifies practice as-if modelling in theory but goes beyond traditional instrumentalism. Finally, relate my account recent controversy about mentalism versus behaviourism, reject both positions, offer an alternative view.