A public choice theorist would be most likely to say that government failure is a consequence of the
A) actions of selfish and corrupt politicians.
B) rational behavior of the participants of the political process.
C) irrational behavior of voters.
D) irrational behavior of special interest groups.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Public choice theory is based on the assumption that individuals act rationally to maximize their own self-interest, whether in the market or in the political process. Therefore, a public choice theorist would argue that government failure is not primarily the result of corrupt politicians or irrational voters, but rather the predictable outcome of rational behavior by all participants in the political process. Special interest groups may use their influence to advance their own interests, but this is seen as a rational response to the incentives created by the political system.

A Public Choice Theorist Would Be Most Likely to Say