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Rational Choices in Irrational Lives, 2004.
A discussion as to what extent rational choice can be observed in everyday life.
4,015 words (approx. 16.1 pages), 15 sources, APA, $ 108.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the resurgent rise in social psychology of the questioning of rational choice in everyday life. It argues that rational choice can explain everyday behaviour only to the extent that the behaviour(s) under consideration can be said to flow from reasoned deliberation. The paper reviews conceptions of rationality; examines the concept of behaviour in and finally discusses the limits to which rational choice can be used to explain behaviour in everyday life.
Table of Contents:
Rationality and Rational Choice
A Question of Behaviour
Individual Behaviour
Group Behaviour
Spontaneous Behaviour
Premeditated Behaviour
Rational Choices, Everyday
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Questions of the extent to which rational choice can explain behaviour in everyday life are arguably ones of relatively recent creation. Aristotle arguably took for granted the fact that rational choices explained actions or behaviour. In book seven of his Nicomachean Ethics he clearly delineates that goals come from character, which he deems the non-rational part of humans, while action and the choices of ways to proceed toward those goals, ones choice of action or behaviour, flow from the intellect - the rational part of individuals. The Enlightenment thinkers developed his position and more than held to his commitment to rationality. The primacy they accorded reason, and humanity's ability to reason, played a great part in the formation of the Enlightenment ideal of rationality."
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Rational Thought, 2004.
A look at the fundamental aspects of rational thought.
690 words (approx. 2.8 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 23.95
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Abstract
This paper describes the fundamental aspects of rational thought and the common barriers to reasoning rationally. It defines rational thought and the process of reasoning and cites several barriers or obstacles to rational thought including unavailability of necessary knowledge, a disorder that prevents thinking at a rational level.
From the Paper
" The purpose of this paper is to describe the fundamental aspects of rational thought and discuss the most common barriers to rational reasoning. The paper begins ..."
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Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, 2002.
A review of "A Guide to Rational Living" which presents the theory of rational emotive behavior therapy.
1,327 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 44.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the concept of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) as presented in "A Guide To Rational Living" by Ellis and Harper. The writer then presents a personal application of REBT, and more specifically the concept presented in Chapter 7 "Overcoming the Influences of the Past" where REBT is applied to a learning experience in real life, through the experience of alcoholism.
From the Paper
"The mere fact that children need love, approval, and attachment, means that to be deprived of these needs would result in sadness, loneliness, and depression. When needs are not met, children and adults will tend to go beyond the original event and effort to make things better. Unfortunately, this attempt can lead to self-blame and beliefs that self-improvement would prevent future neglect. Overexertion toward becoming more deserving of love may ensue ("I absolutely must perform well") or the opposite may occur. The child may believe that there is no hope and life will always be void of love due to beliefs of unworthiness."
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Individual Rationality, Government and Morality, 2005.
Discusses Thomas Hobbes' view of the relationship between government, individual rationality and morality.
1,285 words (approx. 5.1 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 43.95
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Abstract
This paper argues that Thomas Hobbes believes that government is necessary in order to make morality individually rational. This argument is carried out by looking at the distinction between individual rationality and collective rationality (morality). The tension between these two concept is illustrated by the prisoner's dilemma thinking exercise. Drawing on the evidence of the prisoner's dilemma, the paper then explains how government makes it rational for people to be moral. Lastly, the paper briefly compares Hobbes' view with Kant's view of morality.
From the Paper
"Like individual rationality, collective rationality is also based on the natural right and desire of self-preservation. As the name entails, collective rationality is the exercise of reason to discover what is in the best interest of all. Three laws of nature are found by collective reasoning. Firstly, because survival is much easier in conditions of peace rather than in war, every one is to "seek peace, and follow it" (Hobbes, 404) unless there is a need for defense. Secondly, to foster peace, individuals have to surrender their rights to all things and "be contented with so much liberty against [others], as [they] would allow [others] against [themselves]" (Hobbes, 405)."
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"A Guide to Rational Living", 2002.
This paper details the many ways in which a person can learn how to adapt rationally, emotionally, and to use behavioral tools for personal situations in this discussion of Albert Ellis' book, "A Guide to Rational Living."
1,215 words (approx. 4.9 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 41.95
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Abstract
The author gives a detailed discussion of the different ways to deal with personal situations based on Albert Ellis' "A Guide to Rational Living" that may cause some individuals to face inner-conflict. Some of the topics discussed include-- focusing on enjoyment as a tool for success and learning to identify patterns and potential problems. The author finds that the book not only shows you how to identify problem or potential problems, but it also offers constructive ways to overcome an individual's "perceived" problems.
From the Paper
"By adopting healthy ways of thinking, believing, and perceiving events, people can maintain a sense of well-being and joy while avoiding depression, anxiety, extreme anger or frustration, and physical illness. Avoiding self-defeating thoughts and belief constructs and adopting a type of thinking that is sometimes consistent with reality and sometimes twisted in a positive direction. Those individuals who find that they are reacting in unhealthy ways might want to examine their own cognitive constructs for evidence of dysfunctional or self-defeating thinking."
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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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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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Philippine Rationalization Programs, 2006.
This paper is a complete thesis studying the impact of the rationalization program (Executive Order 366) in selected national government agencies of the Republic of the Philippines.
15,535 words (approx. 62.1 pages), 33 sources, MLA, $ 249.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the bureaucracy of the government of the Republic of the Philippines has become bloated with employees, which has led to a number of rationalization policies by the government, such as Executive Order 366, to arrest this upsurge in the number of civil servants. The author points out that one of the research questions is to determine whether the lay-off of tens of thousands of government employees is justified in the sense that the savings of government from rationalization will indeed be delivered to basic social services. The paper concludes that, from the results of the survey and interviews, the rationalization program must be scrapped or deferred because it does not answer the fundamental problems of the fiscal deficit. This paper includes many table and graphs and the survey questionnaire.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Significance of the Study
Statement of Problem
Statement of Objectives
Review of Related Literature
Theoretical Framework
Conceptual Framework
Scope and Limitation
Background of the Study
View from the Government
Executive Order 366
View from Government Unions
Presentation of Data and Analysis
The Bigger Picture
Length of Service
The Underpaid Government Worker - Salary and Benefits
The Overworked Government Personnel - Status of Employment And Government Efficiency
Daily Cost of Living and Dependents
Participation in Government Employee Unions
Government Employee Sentiment on Rationalization
Conclusion and Recommendations
Appendix 1. Executive Order 366
Appendix 2. Implementing Rules and Regulations of Executive Order No. 366
Appendix 3. Survey Form for Government Employees
From the Paper
"The democratic space born out of the February 1986 revolution ushered in a new era in the Philippine labor movement. For almost half a century, the Philippines was the only country in Southeast Asia whose government employees did not enjoy full trade union rights or the system of free collective bargaining even as public sector unionism was a well established practice the world over. It is in the backdrop of this democratization process against a culture of repression and a consciousness of the role trade unions will play in the body politic that the Confederation of Independent Unions 'was formed."
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Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, 2007.
A discussion of how rational emotive behavioral therapy works.
901 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 32.95
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Abstract
The paper explains that rational emotive behavioral therapy is based on the idea that our thoughts or inner dialog is what affects our behavior. It focuses on our perceptions of our environment and experiences instead of our environment and experiences themselves. The paper discusses how the rational emotive behavioral therapy process can consist of two basic steps. Irrational thoughts are identified and then the client is instructed to begin replacing these thoughts with more rational, healthier thoughts. The paper concludes that rational emotive behavioral therapy is a step towards individuals taking responsibility for their own dysfunctions, providing them with a solid ground from which to work towards positive change.
From the Paper
"This therapy was innovative at its conception because of its focus on internal as opposed to external locus. One of the most effective elements of this therapy is that it provided a much stronger feeling of control for the patient undergoing Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy because it allows them to believe that they have power over their dysfunction behavior by taking responsibility for the problems. Though the process is often extremely difficult, the concept is simple: If you have a problem, change your thinking about the problem and it will go away."
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Rationality, 2002.
A study of two organizational theories in order to understand the concept of rationality.
1,670 words (approx. 6.7 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 54.95
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Abstract
The paper shows that 'Rationality' is often assumed to be a desirable value by virtually all individuals who engage in business management decision-making. Or, perhaps a better way of phrasing this prioritization of the value of rational thinking and organization is to say that for a manager or a business to be called 'irrational' would be a profound insult to his or her competence. The paper discusses how a better understanding of rationality functions as an organizing principle within human relationships in the context of organizations, requires a more nuanced understanding of rationality. It compares two pioneers of organizational theory, Max Weber and H. A. Simon.
From the Paper
"The best way to deal with the complexity of modern life Weber stated, was the proliferation of legal-rational bureaucratic organizations. The key to Weber's theory was that his designed structure could enable managers to standardize coordinated responses between individuals and individual units of workers, and not simply standardize specific production and operations. Weber suggested that the best way to manage a business or institution was to institute structural coordination controls through centralized, hierarchical, and highly departmentalized structures."
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Behaviour and Rational Therapy, 2003.
A comparison between Behaviour Therapy and Rational Emotive Therapy.
1,346 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 45.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Behaviour Therapy and Rational Emotive Therapy were developed around the middle of the 20th century. The paper begins by discussing Behaviour Therapy, which focusses on the client's behaviour, it draws from classical and operant conditioning procedures and works to abolish maladaptive behaviours through replacing these with more adaptive ones. The paper then explains that Rational Emotive Therapy, on the other hand, moves to replace irrational beliefs that are causing distress or discomfort in the client's life with more rational beliefs. These two therapies have both differences and similarities which are discussed further within this paper.
From the Paper
"Behaviour Therapy was introduced into the psychological world during the 1950s to counter the criticisms of psychodynamic theories of this era. Designed to focus upon observable behaviour, Behaviour Therapy (BT) strayed from the focal point of unconscious mental processes in which psychodynamic theory was based and laid a different foundation (the belief that maladaptive behaviours become linked with certain stimuli through chance) that would be followed for years to come (Carlson, Buskist & Martin, 2000). BT drew from previous psychological works such as Pavlov's classical conditioning and Skinner's operant conditioning principles and by the 1970's it became the preferred treatment approach to many presented psychological disorders."
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Rational Expectation Model and Exchange Rate, 2002.
An overview of Robert Lucas' rational expectation model and its relationship with exchange rate and full employment.
1,650 words (approx. 6.6 pages), 7 sources, $ 62.95
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Abstract
This paper focuses on the rational expectation model and its connection with exchange rate and full employment. Robert Lucas, the pioneer of rational expectation model maintains that people are able to predict their economic future with the information available and therefore the government should not intervene for the regulation of financial markets. The proponents of rational expectation theory argue that there are some variables present within the economy that possess self-correcting powers and therefore government intervention is unnecessary.
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Rational Choice and Human Behavior, 2006.
A discussion regarding Freud versus Kant, and the issue of rational choice.
1,575 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 2 sources, $ 62.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews the concept of rational choice which suggests that the individual has the ability to make decisions after contemplation of all areas of concern, and that choice is based on free will. Kant's view in relation to Adam and Eve supports this notion. However, Freud's interpretation of rationality in relation to mankind suggests that natural forces lead man to make decisions and that he is compelled by these forces which involve no rationalization whatsoever. This paper discusses how these contrasting views provide theories on human existence and what leads man to make choices that will affect his life and the lives of others.
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Health Care Rationing, 2004.
This paper discusses the ethical issues of health care rationing.
930 words (approx. 3.7 pages), 4 sources, APA, $ 33.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the ethical issue involves whether it is better if fewer Americans profit with a greater amount of health resource allocation or if the majority benefit to a lesser degree for equity in health care benefits. The author evaluates the rights-based Utilitarian theory that states the "happiness" of the greatest number of individuals can be applied to the clinical ethics perspective of health care rationing, thus taking an Aristotelian position that the decision maker should base his or her ethical values on patient well-being rather than established guidelines prepared by others external to the case. The paper concludes that, by rationing heath care, civil rights are violated in that health is being placed at risk; therefore, the policy of omitting that which could potentially save someone's life lacks in ethical justification.
From the Paper
"In addition to the ethical debate surrounding rationing, there exists a major conflict with the essay's argument. The essayist writes, "The miracles of medicine have outpaced the ability...to pay for them," discriminating against advancing medical technologies that he views as unnecessary if less medical care is provided. If "innovation grows faster than our ability to pay for it," is his justification to support rationing, then he is also advocating reducing expenditures in the medical research and development field, forcing us into a medical standstill. Given this to be the case, then medical rationing could work nicely since there would be fewer technologies to argue over providing to patients."
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"A Guide to Rational Living", 2002.
This paper critically analyzes the book, "A Guide to Rational Living" by Albert Ellis, a cognitive psychologist.
1,255 words (approx. 5.0 pages), 1 source, APA, $ 42.95
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Abstract
The following paper examines Ellis's cognitive psychological concepts based on his theory 'Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy' which teaches how to adapt rationally and emotionally to situations, making use of behavioral tools to effectively stop your unwanted patterns. The writer reviews the book and critically analyzes Ellis' teachings, disagreeing and agreeing on several aspects of his theories. The main criticism of this book is the style of writing and its lack of focus on the therapies of cognitive psychology.
From the Paper
"He provides a useful guide on how our irrational beliefs lead us to experience emotional disturbance and on how to change our irrational beliefs to more healthy ones.Ellis give examples of cases throughout the book that demonstrates how we can learn to identify, dispute, and modify irrational beliefs. This guide can have a positive impact on your life. The book repeats itself but it beneficial to reinforce the author's main points. This book has something for everyone. You don't have to be depressed or have "a problem" to learn and benefit from this book. It gives you different ideas to apply to your everyday living, the "musts, oughts, and shoulds" created just for you."
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