Rational Choice Theory Advocacy And Critique

James Samuel Coleman, Thomas J. Farraro9780803947610, 0-8039-4761-5, 0-8039-4762-3

Rational choice theory in sociology has its adherents and detractors. But as one of the few general theories of how individuals, groups, organizations and social strucutres behave, its impact on sociological theorizing has been enormous. In this volume, some of the leading figures in the debate, both advocates and critics, present their views of the value and limitations of rational choice theory. Some of the adherents link it to similar broad theoretical models developed by other sociologists – exchange theory and solidarity theory, for example. Its critics attack it on its weakness in explaining individual emotional behaviour or organizational behaviour. Other scholars debate its explanatory power. Whether supporter or sceptic, sociologists and other social scientists will find themselves immersed in a creative discussion of the merits and difficulties of the model, and its applicability to both macro and micro level social issues.