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Public Choice Theory, 2008.
This paper discusses the issue of public choice theory and urban governance.
1,056 words (approx. 4.2 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 37.95
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Abstract
In this article the writer explores public choice theory and the argument that public choice theory provides a thoughtful assessment of what needs to be done if urban governments are to become efficacious and expeditious providers of services to their citizens. The paper briefly outlines the general argument presented by advocates of local government and then provides some of the compelling arguments raised by those who feel public choice theory does not offer a stalwart solution to the problems of local governance. In the end, the writer maintains that while it sounds superficially appealing, public choice theory does not have a lot of empirical data to support many of its key claims.
From the Paper
"Additionally, public choice theorists argue that municipal governments, because they are monopoly providers, are inefficient insofar as they have little incentive to lower their prices or be innovative. Public choice theorists thus argue that there needs to be a separation between the demand articulation role of government (the collective process whereby it is ascertained how and how much of something will be set aside for public use) and the supplier role of government. Simply put, when governments have to buy services for something, they tend to be exacting in determining the value given for the monies received. All in all, the public choice theorist cleaves to the view that local governance needs to be run as a business - and that government often falls short in its obligations to the general public because it does not separate the provider role and the production role involved in the delivery of a good or service, thereby creating costly inefficiency and waste."
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Rational Choice Theory and Post-Modernism, 2002.
Discussion of the Rational Choice Theory and the Post-Modernist Theory, and how these two different theories can, to some degree, be reconciled.
2,900 words (approx. 11.6 pages), 5 sources, $ 106.95
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Abstract
The development of Rational Choice Theory in the 20th century arose out of economic theory. Through such thinkers as Homans, Blau and Coleman it has emerged as an important school of thought. The theory focuses upon the rational calculations carried out by individuals guided by self-interest. Post-modernism, another contemporary theory, is in many ways in friction with rational choice theory, for the fundamental capitalist drive espoused by rational choice is seen as nothing but a social construct by the post-modern tradition. Alfred Schutz, a twentieth century phenomenologist, reconciles these two strains of thought to some degree by bringing up the notion of individual perception which encompasses both the social constructs and the drive for self-interest.
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Social Choice Theory, 2008.
This paper looks at three social choice theories and argues in favour of Robert Nozick's theory.
1,229 words (approx. 4.9 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 41.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses three different types of social choice theory; John Rawls' theory, basic utilitarianism and Robert Nozick's theory of libertarianism. The paper argues that Nozick's theory of emphasizing human dignity and autonomy is the greatest of the three social choice theories because it secures the freedoms and prerogatives of all individuals.
From the Paper
"In its simplest form, Social Choice Theory is fundamentally concerned with the "aggregation of individuals' preferences into a collective preference; based on this social preference a collective decision can be taken" (Haake, para.1). To elaborate a little more fully on what can be quite a complex topic, social choice theory is a branch of decision theory preoccupied with the process and outcome of a social choice procedure to which all affected parties agree to be bound (Davies, para.2). In summation, social choice theory is about making the best choice globally for everyone. Suffice it to say, John Rawls, utilitarian theory, and Robert Nozick have their own differing views on the considerations that should be borne in mind when assessing how social choices can be made."
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Rational Choice Theory by John Scott, 2006.
Citiques an article by John Scott about Rational Choice Theory.
690 words (approx. 2.8 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 23.95
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Abstract
This paper critiques an article by John Scott about Rational Choice Theory. It gives an overview of the theory and points out some of the areas where people have difficulty with the theory. The paper also looks at how the theory applies to the Criminal Justice System in the U.S.
From the Paper
"John Scott's article on Rational Choice Theory gives a good overview and historical perspective of the theory and how psychologists from differing backgrounds have supported or criticized the theory..."
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Choice Theory, 2002.
Show why criminals choose the path they take, within the context of the Rational Choice Theory.
1,650 words (approx. 6.6 pages), 12 sources, $ 62.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the reason why some individuals engage in criminal behavior. Many researchers in recent years have started to focus on the element of choice, rational choice. This paper examines Rational Choice Theory. .
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The Rational Choice Theory, 2004.
This paper discusses the development of the rational choice theory.
1,565 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 51.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the rational choice theory, which defines a rational action as the maximization of causal profit, was essentially developed as an economic theory, but has been extended to other realms as well. The author explains that the theory, which was expanded to the area of sociology by Max Weber, Talcott Parsons, and George Homans, was challenged for its lack of empirical support. The paper concludes that rational theory now has been thoroughly tested empirically and found to be based on a sound premise; the theory may not apply to all people in all situations, but it highlights a strong correlation between rationality and man?s decision making behavior.
From the Paper
"When we are faced with a decision, there are always some options involved. Which path is the correct one, which option would best serve our purpose, which choice appears most suitable are some of the key questions on which we base our decision. Man by nature is interested in maximization of his profits whether professional or personal. No one would deliberately want to take a risk that is bound to go awry. In almost every case, man carefully studies the situation and then chooses the best option available to him. And this is not something limited to money matters but extends itself to almost every area of life including social relationships, religion, politics and other areas."
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The Rational Choice Theory, 2007.
This paper examines the feminist perspective of the rational choice theory as an explanation for female crime.
812 words (approx. 3.2 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 28.95
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Abstract
The paper provides a brief definition of the rational choice theory and argues that the theory, while plausible, is far too laden with masculine, patriarchal assumptions to be an effective explanation for female crime. The paper shows how females have been constrained historically by patriarchal forces and concludes that this is sufficient proof that the theory functions better as an explanation for male criminal behavior than for female criminal behavior.
From the Paper
"Simply put, rational choice theory holds that criminals are rational or "purposive" actors who calculate the relative benefits and costs of committing an act and make a decision which they believe will maximize the utility of their (criminal) actions. According to at least one online source, rational choice theory also posits that the alternatives available to any actor or group of actors is necessarily constrained by the environment and by the institutions within which they make their decisions. In the end, it appears as though rational choice theory posits that criminals select certain victims and/or certain types of crime because they feel the reward is sufficient to justify the risk or the risk is low enough that the "lure" of the reward becomes over-mastering (O'Connor 2005)."
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Choice Theory, 2002.
An overview of the principles of choice theory which explains motivation in human behavior.
1,775 words (approx. 7.1 pages), 10 sources, $ 66.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at one of the various theories as to why people commit crimes. Choice theory is a theory of human behavior that provides an explanation of motivation. This is the belief that we are internally, not externally motivated this theory also teaches that outside events never "make" us do anything.
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Rational Choice Theory, 2006.
A discussion regarding the political influence of the rational choice theory on British society.
2,224 words (approx. 8.9 pages), 14 sources, MLA, $ 69.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how the benefits of the rational choice theory in the field of political science has been a subject of much debate. The paper further discusses how those who use the rational choice model in analyzing politics use formal mathematical patterns in order to study their subject.
From the Paper
"Another assumption is that the consensus in British society, and perhaps voter apathy, is an indication of widespread agreement about government and policy. This is not necessarily the case, as consensus could be that the government is not performing well, but that there is no better alternative. Pluralists see two types of constraint on the power of influential groups. One is that of counter-groups, such as the gun lobby and gun control groups in America. The other is that of potential groups, a mass of people unable to organise and mobilise, but which conceivably could, and so are included in policy making (Smith, 1990). Elitists would refute this assumption, claiming that no group can counter an elite, and that a potential elite would either be encompassed by the elite, if possessing the right qualities, or prevented from attaining elite status."
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The Rational Choice Theory, 2007.
An examination of William Glasser's rational choice theory of quality management in schools.
1,713 words (approx. 6.9 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 55.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses how William Glasser argues against what he sees are traditional, dictatorial remedies teachers and administrators use to address the problems of student learning in the classroom. Glasser applies his philosophy of psychiatry, known as the rational choice theory to school pedagogy and administration. The paper explains his theory that is designed to empower students, foster creativity amongst students and encourage all students to increase the level of personal investment in the quality of their work. The paper shows how Glasser aims to bring joy back to the classroom through group work and students' responsibility for the performance of other students.
From the Paper
"Glasser's philosophy is designed to empower students, just as his philosophy was originally intended to empower workers in industry and clients in therapy to take responsibility for their own decisions, actions, and learning. His philosophy frees teachers, administrators, and managers from the responsibility of having to bear the responsibility for the quality of the work of their students, and the responsibility of controlling the actions of others an impossible task. Glasser's theory of the innate trustworthiness of individual's natural impulses for self-betterment, and his distrust of hierarchical, standard operating procedures in management reflects a fundamental paradigmatic shift assessing the roots of human unhappiness as well as a lack of productivity."
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Public Choice Theory, 2002.
A study of the political economy and public choice theory.
1,690 words (approx. 6.8 pages), 6 sources, $ 54.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the "Public Choice Theory" by James Buchanan and Gordon Tullock, which holds that politicians base their actions on self-interest. The paper illustrates how this theory holds true in the Bush Presidency in his personal financial interest in the oil industry. It also demonstrates that corporations have found it more profitable to influence federal trade policy than other government activities.
From the Paper
"In 1962, James Buchanan and Gordon Tullock published a book called The Calculus of Consent, which posited an idea that was later to win them a Nobel Prize in Economics. The idea was that of Public Choice Theory, that holds that politicians base their actions on self-interest, and that actors in the economy will seek a political means to meet their ends if it is less expensive than seeing the political environment as a given context and seeking traditional economic recourse for action. This action the authors refer to as rent seeking."
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Rational Choice Theory and New Institutionalism, 2002.
The role of ideas and arguments in the policy process from the point of view of the "Rational Choice Theory" and "New Institutionalism".
4,173 words (approx. 16.7 pages), 14 sources, MLA, $ 111.95
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Abstract
This paper focuses on New Institutionalism and Rational Choice Theory as applied to public policy-making in the developed and developing world. The United States, the UK, and the Caribbean region are explored when most of the assumptions of the two theories are implemented in the respective policy environments. This paper is excellent for those wanting to understand fully the two aproaches and the various ways the behavior of policy factors in society can be explained and appraised. The paper shows how the force of the ideas and arguments behind these theories create opportunities and constraints for public policy-making in both the developed and developing world.
From the Paper
"Central to the existence of any policy-making process must be the role of ideas and arguments. Rational Choice Theory and New Institutionalism both attempt to assess, appraise, and even distinguish between types of decision-making occurring within differing settings, circumstances, situations and among individuals, groups or institutional frameworks as the case may be. Interestingly though paradoxically, ideas and arguments are quite critical to policy-making from the point of view of both New Institutionalism and Rational Choice Theory, despite attempts in certain parts or variations of both Theories, to dismantle or downplay the role of both ideas and arguments, respectively, in selecting policy methods."
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Rational Choice and White Collar Crime, 2005.
This paper covers some recent research into white-collar crime and ties it in with the rational-choice theory of crime. This paper focuses more on the causal aspect of white-collar crime than on the outcome aspect of it.
1,837 words (approx. 7.3 pages), 12 sources, MLA, $ 58.95
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This paper discusses how the existing stereotype of a white-collar offender as a high-ranking executive may be flawed. The demographics of white-collar offenders suggest most of them are middle-class white males. It looks at the theories as to why such people would commit these crimes and explains that most theories center on the rational-choice decision making process because of the protracted and diligent nature of white-collar crimes. It further discusses how, within the white-collar inmate community, there also appear to be two separate pathways to white-collar crime: one marked by previous run-ins with the law before turning to white-collar crime, and the other one marked by no run-ins with the law.
From the Paper
"White-collar crime has gained increased notoriety in recent years with the downfall of Enron, WorldCom, and insider trading by Martha Stewart. Despite its increased awareness in the public, its etiology is not well known. One of the main reasons for criminologists' naivete regarding white-collar crime is the lack of scientific research on the topic. The relative lack of data arises from an array of political, sociological, penological, and funding issues. The data that is available to researchers indicates that the existing stereotype of white-collar crime offenders is flawed."
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Feminist Theory and Abortion, 2008.
A discussion on abortion in light of feminist theory.
3,002 words (approx. 12.0 pages), 11 sources, APA, $ 88.95
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Abstract
This paper seeks to take a critical look at feminist theory in light of the second wave of feminism by breaking down feminism into its various belief systems and foundations. A short section on feminist bioethics is also presented including its history and foundation. The next section of the paper focuses on abortion in light of feminist theory. The paper then concludes with a personal discussion on the author's agreement with the pro-choice feminist theory on abortion. While theory and foundations on feminism are presented for both pro-choice and pro-life feminist theory, this writer believes that the maintenance of a pro-choice feminist ideology is critical.
Outline:
Abstract
Feminist Theory and Feminism
Feminist Bioethics
Abortion in Light of Feminist Theory - US
Abortion in Light of Feminist Theory - International
This Writer as 'Pro-Choice' - Statement
This Writer as 'Pro-Choice' - Personal Ideology
From the Paper
"Stewart (2003) tells us that from the late 1960s into the 1970s, feminists started developing their own theory as to what feminism was, but by the 190s, there were conflicting opinions and viewpoints on the best way to challenge the patriarchy. Ermarth (2000) comments on the differing viewpoints of feminism that are all individual components of the "feminist umbrella" she refers to as 'identity politics.' To Ermarth (2000), how one identifies themselves determines their concept of feminism. Ermarth (2000) tells us that feminism can take on any meaning, although the most common refers to the social factors related to male supremacy and an opposition to any kind of domination. "
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Choice and Motivation, 2005.
Compares two modern day theories of motivation and choice.
2,484 words (approx. 9.9 pages), 54 sources, MLA, $ 75.95
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Abstract
Given that each and every one of us is exposed to advertisers and marketers attempting to motivate us to choose their product, whether we need it or not, understanding the dynamics between motivation and choice should be high on every educated person's list. The paper explains that if we do not understand how we are being manipulated by the media and for what ends, we cannot make informed choices about other things in life. This paper compares and contrasts two modern theories of motivation and choice - the personally intrinsic and the socially intrinsic.
Paper Outline:
Introduction
History of Study of Motivation
Extrinsic vs. Intrinsic Rewards
Choice and Intrinsic Motivation in Western Civilization
Motivation and Choice in Non-Western Cultures
Conclusions
References
From the Paper
"Generally, Westerners appear to be more interested in the concepts of motivation and choice because they are an intrinsic part of our culture. Certainly, as corporations grow globally both in their markets as well as in their employment, understanding what motivates employees and consumers from other cultures will be very important to the international corporations of the 21st Century."
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