Rational Choice Theory

Front Cover
Peter Abell
E. Elgar, 1991 - Mathematics - 408 pages
'Rational Choice Theory is a flourishing branch of economic sociology.'

Modern sociological theory has to a considerable degree been fashioned in reaction to assumptions about human rationality. This important volume argues in favour of re-establishing rather relaxed assumptions of rationality as a basis for building theory. Although such theories often fail, they prove to be more successful in building predictive and deductive models of human affairs than any competing theoretical framework.

The volume includes important and seminal articles drawn from economics, game theory, utility theory and finds application in the Marxist theory of class, group theory, organization theory and the theory of power relations.

This landmark book will be an essential reference companion for any serious student or researcher in modern sociological theory.

From inside the book

 

Contents

Journal of Sociology 63 597606
3
R M Emerson 1962 PowerDependence Relations
12
Opportunity Costs and the Theory of TwoPerson Bargaining
37
Copyright

15 other sections not shown

Common terms and phrases

A's power actors agent alternative American Journal analysis argue assumption bargaining behavior benefit Blau capitalism capitalist causal coalition compliance concept constraints contribution cooperation decision depends dilemma economic theory economists effect Elster empirical equilibrium ethnic collective action example exploitation extortion functional explanation G. A. Cohen game theory given Harsanyi hemisphere incentives increase indifference curves institutions interaction interest investment involved Journal of Sociology labor macrosociological Marwell Marxist maximize measure mental accounting methodological individualism n-person normal norms Olson opportunity costs organization paradigm participants payoff person PETER ABELL players political possible predictions preferences Prisoner's Dilemma probability problem production rational choice theory reason relations relative deprivation revolt rewards sanctions situation social outcomes social theory society sociologists status strategy structure subjects theoretical theory of action tion tive University Press utility function vertical thinking W. D. Hamilton

References to this book

About the author (1991)

Edited by Peter Abell, London School of Economics and Political Science, UK

Bibliographic information

TitleRational Choice Theory
Elgar reference collection
Volume 8 of Schools of thought in economics
Volume 8 of Schools of thought in sociology : an Elgar reference collection
Issue 8 of Schools of thought in sociology
EditorPeter Abell
Compiled byPeter Abell
Editionillustrated
PublisherE. Elgar, 1991
ISBN1852783214, 9781852783211
Length408 pages
Subjects ›  › 

Mathematics / Game Theory
Psychology / General
Social Science / Methodology
Social Science / Sociology / General
  
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