Rational Choice Theory - Potential and Limits

Few approaches in political science have generated so much controversy as rational choice theory. Some claim that the approach has made political science scientific. Its critics argue that it involves unrealistic assumptions about individual behaviour. While its tenets and benefits remain the subject of heated debate, rational choice theory is now established as a core approach in political science and one that is vital for contemporary students of the discipline to understand. With an impressive degree of clarity, the book introduces the philosophical foundations, the methodology and the key issues of rational choice theory. It shows how the approach has been constructively used to explain political phenomena and also reflects more broadly on how theories are developed and used in political science. Balanced and insightful, this important new text gives a nuanced and elegant evaluation of the potential and limits of rational choice theory.>

Sommario

Introduction
What is Rational Choice Theory?
The Self-Interest Assumption
Culture, Identity and Symbols
Individuals and Institutions
The Use and Misuse of Models
Equilibrium
The Micro-Level Mechanism
Conclusion.

Info autore

Lina Eriksson

Riassunto

The heated debates about rational choice theory (RCT) in political science raise many issues but follow up on few of them.This book therefore discusses RCT's fundamental assumptions and methodology, the value and use of models, and the use of theories in science, enabling a more nuanced evaluation of both the theory's potential and limits.

Dettagli sul prodotto

• Autori: Lina Eriksson
• Editore: Macmillan
• Lingue: Inglese
• Formato: Copertina rigida
• Pubblicazione: 18.10.2011
• EAN: 9780230545083
• ISBN: 978-0-230-54508-3
• Pagine: 296
• Serie: Political Analysis; Political Analysis (Palgrave H; Political Analysis; Political Analysis (Palgrave H
• Categorie: Saggistica > Filosofia, religione > Altro; Scienze sociali, diritto, economia > Scienze politiche > Scienze politiche e cittadinanza attiva; B, Political Science, Political Science and International Studies, Methodology of Political Science, Institution;political science;Rational Choice