rational actor

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rational actor" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in discussions related to economics, political science, or decision-making theories to describe an individual or entity that makes decisions based on logical reasoning and self-interest. Example: "In economic theory, the concept of a rational actor assumes that individuals will always make choices that maximize their utility."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

He is a rational actor.

The New Yorker

"China is a rational actor," he said.

The New York Times

Turner the rational actor negotiated the deal.

The New Yorker

"Iran is not a rational actor".

The New York Times

The predator is a supremely rational actor.

The New Yorker

She is the rational actor.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

He's a non-rational actor.

Huffington Post

But models that I call 'cousins' of the rational-actor model will survive".

The New Yorker

This sleight of hand yielded some theories that had genuine predictive value, but economists were obliged to exclude from their analyses many phenomena that didn't fit the rational-actor framework, such as stock-market bubbles, drug addiction, and compulsive shopping.

The New Yorker

Recent studies, mainly executed in Europe and (North) America, give more emphasis to biofuels, hydrogen, (P HEVs and HFCVs and also apply attitudinal surveys and (symbolic) qualitative surveys as reaction to the traditional rational-actor approaches.

European Transport Research Review

"But there's a logic behind revenge that defies the rational-actor model.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "rational actor" in your writing, clearly define the parameters of rationality within the specific context. This helps avoid misinterpretations, as rationality can vary across disciplines and situations.

Common error

Avoid assuming that all individuals or entities will always behave as "rational actors". Recognize that emotions, biases, and incomplete information can significantly influence decision-making processes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rational actor" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "rational" modifies the noun "actor". It describes a specific type of actor, usually in theoretical models. According to Ludwig AI, it's used to describe logical reasoning and self-interest.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "rational actor" is a commonly used noun phrase, primarily within the contexts of news and media, science, and formal business discussions. As Ludwig AI confirms, this term describes someone who makes decisions based on logical reasoning and self-interest. While grammatically correct, it's important to use it judiciously, acknowledging the limitations of the "rational actor" model and considering alternative perspectives that account for emotions and biases. Remember to define parameters of rationality in your writings and not assume universal rationality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

logical agent

Replaces "rational" with "logical", emphasizing the reasoning aspect of the actor.

reasoning individual

Focuses on the individual's capacity for reasoning as the primary attribute.

calculating agent

Highlights the strategic aspect of decision-making, implying careful assessment of options.

strategic decision-maker

Emphasizes the act of making strategic decisions based on rationality.

prudent player

Suggests careful and wise actions, replacing "rational" with "prudent".

sensible actor

Indicates that the actor's behavior is based on good sense and sound judgment.

sound decision-maker

Highlights the quality of decision-making as being well-reasoned and logical.

well-reasoned agent

Focuses on the agent's ability to make decisions based on sound reasoning.

analytical thinker

Emphasizes the analytical skills of the actor in their decision-making process.

objective decision maker

Highlights the unbiased nature of the decision-making process of the actor.

FAQs

How is the concept of "rational actor" used in economics?

In economics, a "rational actor" is an individual or entity assumed to make decisions that maximize their utility or self-interest. This model is used to predict behavior in various scenarios, though it's often acknowledged that real-world behavior can deviate from this ideal.

What are some criticisms of the "rational actor" model?

Critics argue that the "rational actor" model oversimplifies human behavior by ignoring emotions, cognitive biases, and social influences. Behavioral economics incorporates these factors to provide a more realistic understanding of decision-making. Alternative theories, such as bounded rationality, suggest that individuals make decisions based on limited information and cognitive resources.

Can "rational actor" theory be applied to political science?

Yes, "rational actor" theory is used in political science to analyze the behavior of states and political actors. It assumes that these actors make decisions to maximize their power, security, or other strategic goals. However, this approach is also subject to criticisms about oversimplification and neglect of non-rational factors.

What are some alternatives to the "rational actor" model in understanding decision-making?

Alternatives to the "rational actor" model include behavioral economics, which incorporates psychological insights into economic analysis, and theories of bounded rationality, which acknowledge the limitations of human cognitive abilities. Other alternatives consider the role of emotions, social norms, and cultural factors in shaping decisions.