A Theory of Human Behaviour and of the Political Process
In: Acta politica: AP ; international journal of political science ; official journal of the Dutch Political Science Association (Nederlandse Kring voor Wetenschap der Politiek), Band 11, Heft 4, S. 489-533
ISSN: 0001-6810
The political process mechanism is examined to find out when, how, & why it produces an outcome, through an analysis which rests upon an articulate theory of human behavior. The theory is axiomatic, presented in mathematical language, & firmly connected to traditions in psychology, political science, & the economics of utilitarianism & political economy. The theorems offered identify the conditions to be satisfied for a political process to produce an outcome of stability, & suggest the sort of factors that will bear upon these outcomes. Apart from the structural factors which influence access relationships, such outcomes are determined by the balance of benefits & sacrifices, of risks & gains, involved in the outcome, & in demand behavior on the part of each of the participants, & in the relations of dependence, strength, & prestige among the participants. 29 Figures. Modified HA.