A Social Value-Based Weighting Approach for Advanced Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Methods

Abstract

Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) is one of the key tools for addressing complex problems involving diverse and often conflicting criteria. Despite the development of various weighting methods, most approaches rely primarily on quantitative data or subjective judgments, with limited attention to social and cultural values. This gap may lead to outcomes that diverge from societal expectations and reduce the acceptability of decisions. To bridge this gap, the present study proposes a framework entitled Social Value-Based Weighting (SVBW). In this framework, baseline weights are first obtained using any classical method (subjective, objective, or hybrid) and are then adjusted according to a “Social Priority Index.” This index reflects the degree to which each criterion aligns with selected social values such as justice, public interest, resource efficiency, harm prevention, and religious democracy. The proposed model can be integrated with any existing MCDM method, and the intensity of value-based adjustments can be tuned through flexible parameters. Findings from a numerical example and sensitivity analysis indicate that incorporating a social value layer, while not fundamentally altering final rankings, enhances the transparency of decision logic and strengthens the social acceptability of outcomes. Beyond its theoretical novelty, this framework offers broad practical applications in public policy, resource management, investment, and organizational decision-making. Ultimately, the study establishes a bridge between quantitative analysis and social values, paving the way for the development of context-specific and socially embedded approaches to MCDM.