Abstract
Rational Choice (RC) theory argues that individual actions and their social outcomes can be explained by assuming goal-directed behaviour which is consistent with certain rationality criteria. This approach is based on methodological individualism. In economics and also in political science, RC is a proliferating research program. In sociology, there is an increasing number of scholars working in this tradition, in particular among American, European and Japanese sociologists. This chapter attempts to give a survey of the basic ideas and contributions made to sociology by RC theory. After a very brief description of its origins in Part 1 the core elements of RC theory will be discussed in Part 2. Having presented the necessary background, we will focus in Part 3 on the general contributions of RC to sociological theory. It will become clear that one of the main advantages of RC is its ability to provide a generalized framework for analysis of social phenomena. Part 4 will contain an overview of applications of RC in diverse fields of sociology.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
