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Rational Action and Political Activity

Author

Listed:
  • Sidney Verba
  • Kay L. Schlozman
  • Henry E. Brady

Abstract

Rational actor theory and the facts of political participation have long been in an uneasy relationship. Many citizens vote and take part in other political activities when theory would predict that they would take a free ride. This paper draws on several analyses of citizen participation for some of which rational actor theory is quite useful and for others it is less so. It attempts to specify the conditions under which the theory is applicable. It concludes that rational actor theory is more potent when applied to issues of cost rather than benefits or when the goals of participation can be specified in a clear manner and one can measure their degree of attainment.

Suggested Citation

  • Sidney Verba & Kay L. Schlozman & Henry E. Brady, 2000. "Rational Action and Political Activity," Journal of Theoretical Politics, , vol. 12(3), pages 243-268, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:jothpo:v:12:y:2000:i:3:p:243-268
    DOI: 10.1177/0951692800012003001
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    5. Michael, Robert T, 1973. "Education in Nonmarket Production," Journal of Political Economy, University of Chicago Press, vol. 81(2), pages 306-327, Part I, M.
    6. Huckfeldt, Robert & Sprague, John, 1992. "Political Parties and Electoral Mobilization: Political Structure, Social Structure, and the Party Canvass," American Political Science Review, Cambridge University Press, vol. 86(1), pages 70-86, March.
    7. Muller, Edward N. & Opp, Karl-Dieter, 1986. "Rational Choice and Rebellious Collective Action," American Political Science Review, Cambridge University Press, vol. 80(2), pages 471-487, June.
    8. Gary S. Becker, 1975. "Human Capital: A Theoretical and Empirical Analysis, with Special Reference to Education, Second Edition," NBER Books, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc, number beck75-1.
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