Question

Which approach of Comparative Politics focuses on the ‘interests of actors’?

• A. The Interpretive approach
• B. The Structural approach
• C. The Institutional approach
• D. The Rational-Choice approach

Hint:

The Rational-Choice approach in Comparative Politics emphasizes the self-interested decisions made by political actors, based on maximizing their benefits.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Rational-Choice approach.
The Rational-Choice approach in comparative politics focuses on understanding political behavior by analyzing the interests, preferences, and strategies of individuals or actors. It assumes that political actors make decisions that maximize their personal benefits or utilities.
Step 2: Analysis of options.
- (1) The Interpretive approach: This approach focuses on understanding the meaning and context of political actions rather than the interests of actors.
- (2) The Structural approach: This approach focuses on the structure of political systems, not on the interests of individual actors.
- (3) The Institutional approach: This approach looks at the role of institutions in shaping political outcomes, rather than focusing on individual interests.
- (4) The Rational-Choice approach: This is correct. It centers on the interests and actions of political actors, analyzing how they make decisions to maximize their personal interests.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (4) The Rational-Choice approach.