Friday, 10 Oct 2025
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms & Conditions
  • DMCA
logo logo
  • World
  • Politics
  • Crime
  • Economy
  • Tech & Science
  • Sports
  • Entertainment
  • More
    • Education
    • Celebrities
    • Culture and Arts
    • Environment
    • Health and Wellness
    • Lifestyle
  • 🔥
  • Trump
  • VIDEO
  • House
  • White
  • ScienceAlert
  • Trumps
  • Watch
  • man
  • Health
  • Season
Font ResizerAa
American FocusAmerican Focus
Search
  • World
  • Politics
  • Crime
  • Economy
  • Tech & Science
  • Sports
  • Entertainment
  • More
    • Education
    • Celebrities
    • Culture and Arts
    • Environment
    • Health and Wellness
    • Lifestyle
Follow US
© 2024 americanfocus.online – All Rights Reserved.
American Focus > Blog > Economy > Public Choice Doesn’t Require Us to Assume People Are Evil
Economy

Public Choice Doesn’t Require Us to Assume People Are Evil

Last updated: January 25, 2025 11:47 am
Share
Public Choice Doesn’t Require Us to Assume People Are Evil
SHARE

Public Choice, as explained by economist James M. Buchanan, is based on the idea that politicians are just like any other individual. This concept, known as “behavioral symmetry,” suggests that politicians have their own interests and work towards fulfilling them. In essence, the behavior of individuals in the voting booth and government offices can be understood using the same principles applied to their actions in everyday life.

Living in Memphis, I often came across signs of local representatives claiming to be “fighting for Memphis.” This made me question who they were fighting against and for what purpose. It became apparent that these politicians were essentially fighting for a larger share of public funds for their district. It is rare for politicians to reject additional funding or suggest reallocating resources elsewhere.

It is important to note that assuming individuals are “self-interested” does not imply that they are inherently selfish or immoral. Rather, it acknowledges that people have unique interests and strive to improve their own well-being, even if their definition of “better off” varies. This principle applies even when individuals are completely altruistic but have differing opinions on what is best for society.

For instance, one altruistic individual may believe that education is underfunded, while another may argue for increased investment in healthcare. This disparity in priorities influences voting behaviors and shapes the actions of politicians seeking support. Economics does not operate on the assumption of extreme selfishness but rather recognizes the diversity of opinions on what constitutes societal good.

Economic models centered on the concept of individuals “maximizing consumption” remain relevant even when consumption is defined in terms of benefiting others. While people may prioritize the welfare of others, economics predicts that they will be more cautious with their own resources than those belonging to others. Research conducted by Joy A. Buchanan and Gavin Roberts supports this notion.

See also  America is a manufacturing powerhouse

Scarcity is a fundamental economic challenge, as resources are limited and must be allocated efficiently. Even individuals with selfless intentions will encounter conflicts when deciding how to distribute resources among competing needs. Economics does not dictate personal preferences but offers insights based on the recognition of diverse perspectives on societal welfare and the constraints of scarce resources.

In conclusion, economics serves as an analytical framework rather than a prescriptive guide for moral values. It underscores the importance of understanding differing views on what is beneficial and valuable in society. By embracing “behavioral symmetry,” public choice economists emphasize the need to acknowledge and respect varying perspectives on what constitutes the common good.

TAGGED:AssumeChoicedoesntevilpeoplePublicrequire
Share This Article
Twitter Email Copy Link Print
Previous Article Denver and city cop appeal more than M in payouts to George Floyd protesters Denver and city cop appeal more than $14M in payouts to George Floyd protesters
Next Article New era of USWNT competition begins as players praise Emma Hayes’ ‘vision’ in new-look January camp New era of USWNT competition begins as players praise Emma Hayes’ ‘vision’ in new-look January camp
Leave a comment

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Popular Posts

Min Woo Lee shares hilarious golf collaboration with popular YT star

Min Woo Lee, the talented golfer, recently made an appearance at the 2025 Open Championship…

July 23, 2025

101 Inspirational Christmas Quotes for Families, Friends and a Wonderful Holiday

Christmas is a time of joy, hope, and reflection. It's a time when we come…

October 29, 2024

Anna Wintour to Remain Met Gala Chair

Anna Wintour, the iconic editor-in-chief of American Vogue, has announced her decision to step down…

June 27, 2025

Eminem’s ‘Happy Gilmore 2’ Cameo References Iconic Character From OG Film

'Happy Gilmore 2' Eminem's Character Pays Tribute to First Movie Icon ... 'Jackass!!!' Published July…

July 25, 2025

This is The Best Christmas Present For Homeworkers

Are you someone who values comfort and warmth while working on chilly days? If so,…

December 21, 2024

You Might Also Like

When Godzilla Breaks Windows
Economy

When Godzilla Breaks Windows

October 10, 2025
Peter Schiff Describes Bitcoin’s Jump Over 6,000 As ‘Bear Market Rally’: ‘Too Early For Bitcoiners To Get Excited…’
Economy

Peter Schiff Describes Bitcoin’s Jump Over $126,000 As ‘Bear Market Rally’: ‘Too Early For Bitcoiners To Get Excited…’

October 10, 2025
Veteran analyst drops sharp take on GTA 6 hype
Economy

Veteran analyst drops sharp take on GTA 6 hype

October 10, 2025
Nvidia’s Jensen Huang Says AI Demand Is Up ‘Substantially’ This Year, and Still Growing
Economy

Nvidia’s Jensen Huang Says AI Demand Is Up ‘Substantially’ This Year, and Still Growing

October 10, 2025
logo logo
Facebook Twitter Youtube

About US


Explore global affairs, political insights, and linguistic origins. Stay informed with our comprehensive coverage of world news, politics, and Lifestyle.

Top Categories
  • Crime
  • Environment
  • Sports
  • Tech and Science
Usefull Links
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms & Conditions
  • DMCA

© 2024 americanfocus.online –  All Rights Reserved.

Welcome Back!

Sign in to your account

Lost your password?