Constrained rational agency

The concept of constrained rational agents (CRAs) as describing problem-solving systems engaged in tasks requiring synchronous interaction with a dynamic, uncertain environment is discussed. Such agents must adapt their reasoning and action to the specific situational conditions that they face while completing their tasks. How less-than-ideal rational agents cope with the limitations on their deliberation and action imposed by task and environmental constraints is discussed. A model of problem solving and decision making by a CRA is described, and some initial experiments being conducted with this model on diagnosis and repair tasks are reported. Future directions for research are indicated