Ermm concerning your post, do you mean
<min_entry is_neighbour="false" />
<max_entry is_neighbour="false" />

for instance or really a duplication?
Also, how come the default file has for example only the condition under either max or min but never under both?
Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

<decision_entry>
<!--
if not our neighbour, and we have any settlements, and we are at the start of the game >>> minimal defense
-->
<min_entry num_settlements="1"/>
<max_entry stance="Neutral" is_neighbour="false" turn_number="30"/>
<faction_attitude defense="defend_minimal"/>
</decision_entry>