Rational choice theory and the sociology of ethnic relations: a critique

Abstract

This article is a critique of the main principles of the rational choice theory in the way they have been developed and applied in the sociology of ethnic relations. The general argument of the essay is that although rational choice theory is presented as a successful explanatory alternative to post-essentialist criticism of social science, its explanatory value is limited. The author focuses on four central criticisms of the theory: its circularity, its wide and vague understanding of rationality and intentionality, its insensitivity to cultural values and its neglect of politics. Consequently, it is argued in the article that the rational choice theory is unable to provide a comprehensive explanation of ethnic phenomena.

Keywords:

• Rational Choice Theory
• Sociological Theory
• Ethnicity
• Ethnic Relations