Andrew has decided that he is going to rob a bank to pay off his debts after losing his job. He buys a gun from a kid who lives in an economically depressed section of town but he doesn't ask where the gun came from. On the day of the robbery, Andrew decides that he will shoot at the ceiling inside the bank to get everyone's attention. But as he shoots, the bullet ricochets and strikes a bank teller. The teller dies instantly and in the process of Andrew's getaway, he drops his gun.
-Which theoretical explanation most closely fits with Andrew's actions

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Rational choice theory posits that individuals weigh the costs and benefits of their actions and make rational decisions based on those calculations. Andrew's decision to rob a bank and use a gun was a rational choice in his mind, but the unintended consequences of his actions – the death of a bank teller – were not fully considered. The theory also explains his decision to drop the gun in the process of his getaway, as he likely realized the potential consequences of being caught with it.

Andrew Has Decided That He Is Going to Rob a Bank