The Cunning of Reason [Book Review]

Review of Metaphysics 42 (2):389-390 (1988)
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Abstract

Throughout the twelve chapters of this book, Hollis uses ideas from economics, sociology, political theory, and philosophy to reach his central goal: decoding the meaning of rational human action. Hollis begins the development of his argument by reviewing the standard microeconomic analysis of rational choice by a single individual such as Adam. Since action is the result of desire plus belief, rational action involves ordered desires, true beliefs, correct deliberation, and the maximization of net utility. Hollis questions the assumption that desire, rather than belief, is the primary motivator of action. He challenges whether a theory of merely efficient choice which disregards ends can be considered a theory of rational choice.

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