Reflections on 50 years of MCDM: Issues and future research needs

Modern discussions of multiple criteria decision-making extend back about half a century. I reflect on key developments, schools of thought and controversies that have taken place over the period, arguing that perhaps those of us in different schools focus too much on our differences and do not capitalise enough on what we share in common. Moreover, the differences between schools are indications of their respective weaknesses and can drive improvements in each. The discussion points to a number of issues and research needs that the community needs to address.