The Myth of the Rational Voter
Why Democracies Choose Bad Policies - New Edition
by:
Bryan Caplan
in:
Political Theory
Summary:
The book argues that voters are systematically ill-informed and irrational about economics and policy issues, leading to suboptimal democratic outcomes. It suggests that voters' biases are entrenched and persistent, causing democracies to enact inefficient policies that cater to misconceptions rather than evidence-based solutions.
Key points:
1. Rational Irrationality: Caplan says voters don't bother to get accurate information because one vote doesn't change much, so they keep wrong beliefs without consequence.
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