A state legislature is considering raising taxes to pay for road improvements. Each legislator must decide whether he or she is going to support this bill, which has polarized public opinion in the state. The legislator from the Seventh District is particularly concerned about the consequences of her vote because her constituents are about equally divided for and against the bill. If the legislator votes for the bill, she will gain future electoral support from supporters of the bill but will likely also face a tough reelection campaign as bill opponents may mobilize to try and defeat her. If she votes against the bill, she still faces the same situation because bill supporters will mobilize against her in the next election. In either case, the legislator will benefit from her decision but also face some uncertain costs. This description of the legislator's decision making is an example of which principle of politics?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The situation described in the scenario highlights the rationality principle of politics, which suggests that politicians will act in their own self-interest and make decisions that will benefit them politically. The legislator is weighing the potential costs and benefits of her decision and trying to make the best choice for her own reelection prospects. The other principles (policy, institution, and collective action) do not apply as directly to this scenario.

A State Legislature Is Considering Raising Taxes to Pay for Road