Rational Theories

Question 1

What is rational theory?

Answer 1

• The key to understanding rational theory is to focus on individuals.
• Individuals will act selfishly to protect their best interests
• They will evaluate options and pick the one that has the best outcome for them.

Question 2

How to identify when to use rational theory

Answer 2

• The key word here is ‘selfish’. If I can explain the actions of individuals in a political system because they have been selfish, this is rational.

Question 3

What is cultural theory?

Answer 3

• The key to understanding cultural theory is to focus on group and shared ideologies. This could have two interpretations:
• Groups act to protect and advance a common ideology. Therefore, outcomes can be explained by groups acting together.
• Cultural norms or expectations might guide the outcomes of a political system and the individuals within it

Question 4

How to identify when to use cultural theory

Answer 4

• The key word here is ‘shared’. If you can explain a political outcome (similiarites and differences) because it was expected, or because a group acted with a shared ideology, this is cultural.
• Example: The UK is governed culturally by conventions, the US culture is that the entrenched and sovereign Constitution is superior to political wrangling.

Question 5

What is structural theory?

Answer 5

• The key to understanding structural theory is to focus on the institutions and processes.
• Outcomes can be explained by looking at the processes that had to be followed within institutions of power.
• These institutions and processes are the best explanation of political action and outcome.

Question 6

How to identify when to use structural theory

Answer 6

• The key word here is institutions. If you can explain political outcomes because of the processes in place, this is structural.
• Example: Loyalty of MP’s to their party but Congressmen to their state - the party discipline structure is strong in the UK but weak in the USA.