Rational Choice Theory

This critique focuses on assumptions which are the bedrock of rational choice. The theory's definition of rationality is incomplete, and cannot satisfactorily incorporate norms and emotions. Rational choice is based upon atomistic, individual decision makers and cannot account for decisions made by couples, "groups" or other forms of collective action process. The assumption of fixed, well-ordered preferences and "perfect information" makes the theory inadequate for situations of change and uncertainty aggregation. As methodological individualists, rational choice theorists can only view structure and culture as aggregates and cannot incorporate structural or cultural influences as emergent properties which have an effect upon decision making. The critique is grounded in discussion of a wide range of social issues, including race, marriage, health and education.

'This is a book which has a strong rationale, is philosophically and theoretically well informed, structurally well organized, clearly explained ... and fulfills its own objectives very well.' - Journal of Critical Realism 1:1 November 2002, 'This is a book which has a strong rationale, is philosophically and theoretically well informed, structurally well organized, clearly explained ... and fulfills its own objectives very well.' - Journal of Critical Realism