Virtue, choice, and storytelling: how ethics, decision modalities and narrative framing influence decision inertia in a 360 degree extended reality environment

Abstract The phenomenon of decision inertia, has been identified as a critical factor towards sub-optimal decision-making in high-stakes situations. Examined through the lens of Bayesian updating, virtue ethics, and cognitive-experiential self-theory, this research investigated the influence of deontological versus consequentialist narratives and rational versus experiential decision modalities on participants' decision-making behaviours in high-pressure situations. A total of 119 participants took part in an extended reality scenario study designed to provoke high-stakes ethical decision-making. The study juxtaposed grim storytelling narratives against traditional ethical frameworks, aiming to reveal their respective impact on decision inertia amid uncertain conditions. The findings reveal that narrative framing significantly altered decision-making outcomes. Specifically, grim narratives, which presented consequentialist outcomes, were found to significantly reduce decision inertia. Rational decision-making modalities did not significantly predict decision inertia. In contrast, experiential modalities were associated with heightened levels of decision inertia, which suggests a potential vulnerability to hesitation in crisis situations. The exploration into narrative framing further uncovered that grim storytelling effectively counteracted decision inertia. This effect contrasted with non-grim narratives, where the absence of consequence led to a diminished urgency in decision-making. These findings highlight the complexity between cognitive mechanisms, ethical reasoning, and narrative context in shaping decision inertia and decision outcomes. The implications extend to emergency response training and policy development, advocating the strategic use of narrative framing and ethical orientation to enhance decision-making efficacy. This research also underscores the potential of immersive simulations and narrative strategies to foster more decisive and ethically grounded decision-making in high-pressure environments.