Objections to optimality modelling One class of problems with the theory comes in acknowledging that animals may not have the sensory or neural capabilities to do all the things needed to maximize their gains. Lewis, A. C. 1986. Memory constraints and flower choice in Pieris rapae. Science 232:863-865. Janetos, A. C. and B. J. Cole. 1981. Imperfectly optimal animals. Behav. Ecol. Sociobiol. 9:203-209. Another set of objections is more philosophical in nature. Critics argue that optimization arguments are flawed at the base because they are circular and untestable. A common approach to testing optimal foraging theory predictions has been to make a model, collect data to test it, and then when the data don¹t fit, to modify the assumptions of the model to fit the data. This iterative process can either be regarded as an appropriate approach to refining the models or as fatally undercutting any ability to actually test the models. Pierce, G. J. and J. G. Ollason. 1987. Eight reasons why optimal foraging theory is a complete waste of time. Oikos 49:111-118. Stearns, S. C. and P. Schmid-Hempel. 1987. Evolutionary insights should not be wasted. Oikos 49:118-125.