The aim of this course is to introduce students to the rational choice approach to understanding collective decision making. Rational choice theory is based on a simple set of assumptions and an analytical method that, when applied rigorously, has produced revolutionary insights about public life and has changed the way we think about collective action, political and economic institutions, policy making and international relations. The course will present the basics of rational choice theory and some if its applications for the analysis of voting, co-operation, and institutional design and effects. Students will learn the necessary skills to apply the theory in their own research.
Coordinator:
Dr. D. Toshkov
Method of instruction
Lectures
Study material:
Book:
Shepsle, Kenneth A. and Mark S. Bonchek (1997) Analyzing Politics: Rationality, Behavior, and Institutions. New York and London: W.W. Norton & Company.
Schedule:
Lecture
Tuesday 1/2 – 15/3 from 15-17 hrs in room 1A20, except for March 8 NO lecture, this lecture is March 11 from11-13 hrs in room SA-41
Exam
Friday 25/3 from 13-16 hr in Gorleaus 03
Re-exam
Tuesday 6/6 from 13-16 hr in USC
Let op! Er kunnen nog wijzigingen optreden in dit rooster
_Laatste wijziging: january 2011