This critically-acclaimed text provides a clear introduction to, and uniquely fair-minded assessment of, Rational Choice approaches. The substantially revised, updated and extended new edition includes more substantial coverage of game theory, collective action, 'revisionist' public choice, and the use of rational choice in International Relations.

1. Introduction
2. James M. Buchanan and Constitutional Political Economy
3. Anthony Downs and the Spatial Theory of Party Competition
4. William Riker and the Theory of Coalitions
5. Kenneth Arrow and Social Choice Theory
6. Mancur Olson and the Logic of Collective Action
7. Gordon Tullock, Rent Seeking, and Government Failure
8. Anthony Downs (again) and the Economics of Information and Voter Choice
9. Rational Choice Explanation.

'A very accessible introduction to rational choice theory and to the work of key scholars within this tradition. Unusually balanced and thoughtful in its approach, it highlights both the strengths and limits of rational choice not only in particular substantive areas but, with striking originality, in terms of its philosophical underpinnings.' - Jack Knight, Washington University, USA 'A very thorough and accessible introduction that will be welcomed for its careful and clear exposition of the ideas of key contributors to the field and of the developments and controversies to which their ideas have given rise.' Brian Barry, Emeritus Professor, London School of Economics and Political Science, UK and Columbia University, USA 'This book is the foundation of a good course in rational choice... [it] makes us think about how we pursue political science inquiry and, ultimately, how much we want to take from the limited science of economics and how much we still want to be able to tell a traditional good story.' - Stuart Astill, Political Studies Review

The Political Analysis series is intended to provide a showcase for political science in all its variety and a channel for political scientists in different specialisms and different parts of the world to talk to each other and to new generations of students. Written in an accessible style, books in the series will provide introductions to, and exemplars of, the best work in the discipline and its various subareas.