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The Rationality of Rational Choice Theory

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  • Stephen Quackenbush

Abstract

Rational choice theory has long been criticized, with several recent critiques of applications in political science in general and international relations in particular. In this paper, I seek to clarify discussion about rationality in several ways. I discuss the role of assumptions in theory and the assumption of rationality in rational choice theory. I demonstrate that many critiques of rational choice theory have been misguided , since instrumental rationality-the rationality of rational choice theory-is applicable to a wide variety of social situations, including situations where various psychological, informational, and structural factors claimed to interfere with rational decision-making are present. I also focus on three applications of rational choice theory in international relations that demonstrate ways that rational choice theorists have potentially added to confusion about the rationality assumption and created disillusionment in others about the rational choice enterprise. Finally, I point out that, since rational choice theory is not a single theory, critics' claims about the non-falsifiability of rational choice are immaterial. An understanding of these issues facilitates movement by the international relations community away from argument over the assumption of rationality and on to more productive and integrative theory building.

Suggested Citation

  • Stephen Quackenbush, 2004. "The Rationality of Rational Choice Theory," International Interactions, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 30(2), pages 87-107, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:ginixx:v:30:y:2004:i:2:p:87-107
    DOI: 10.1080/03050620490462595
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    Cited by:

    1. Karl Sörenson, 2023. "A Misfit model: irrational deterrence and bounded rationality," Theory and Decision, Springer, vol. 94(4), pages 575-591, May.
    2. Frank C. Zagare, 2006. "Deterrence Is Dead. Long Live Deterrence," Conflict Management and Peace Science, Peace Science Society (International), vol. 23(2), pages 115-120, April.
    3. Anderton,Charles H. & Carter,John R., 2009. "Principles of Conflict Economics," Cambridge Books, Cambridge University Press, number 9780521875578, December.
    4. Uriel Abulof, 2015. "The malpractice of “rationality†in international relations," Rationality and Society, , vol. 27(3), pages 358-384, August.
    5. Stephen L. Quackenbush, 2016. "Centers of gravity and war outcomes," Conflict Management and Peace Science, Peace Science Society (International), vol. 33(4), pages 361-380, September.
    6. Enzo Lenine, 2020. "The pulse-like nature of decisions in rational choice theory," Rationality and Society, , vol. 32(4), pages 485-508, November.
    7. Haykal Rafif Wijaya & Sri Rahayu Hijrah Hati & Irwan Adi Ekaputra & Salina Kassim, 2024. "The impact of religiosity and financial literacy on financial management behavior and well-being among Indonesian Muslims," Palgrave Communications, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 11(1), pages 1-13, December.
    8. Rouhani, Omid, 2023. "Public Policy: A science and/or a Field?," MPRA Paper 118121, University Library of Munich, Germany.

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