Rational choice theory says individuals make choices that result in outcomes aligned with their best interests.

The Meaning of Rational Choice Theory. Rational choice theory (RCT) theorists believe that most human decisions are based on maximizing a person's own benefits, while minimizing that which can ...

“Rational choice has come quite a way,” a Stanford University professor, Barry Weingast, said. “Thirty years ago, it was far outside the mainstream in political science in almost every respect.” Mr.

This interdisciplinary field examines the principles that govern decision-making processes, from rational choice models to approaches that incorporate cognitive and emotional factors.

Rational choice theories need to be supplemented by assumptions about the rewards and constraints that people face. The American Sociologist publishes papers, comments, and other writings on topics of ...

Also discussed are some theoretical implications of the rational choice generalization of neoclassical economics. The main contribution of the article is to detect lack of a strong theoretical ...

The third check against the theory of the rational consumer is the fact that we're social animals. We let our friends and family and tribes do our thinking for us.