Question One
Marginal utility theory assumes that there is a relationship between choices made by an individual concerning costs and benefits as determined by prices. The range of rational choice operates on the premise of the cost of pursuing one action while forgoing another. Therefore, one weighs the preference of one path or item to another and makes a decision based on the amount of utility derived from it.
Question Two
The doctrine of revealed preference operates on the premise that people evaluate various choices in their minds before settling on a given alternative. Due to this process, people often exhibit consistent behavior patterns. Thus, by considering the available options, one develops a set of preferences that define an individual. However, the doctrine is not of significant value to economics.
Question Three
The problem of intentionality arises due to a state of consciousness about something. Rational choice theory addresses the issue through the perception that choice made by individuals reflects their awareness of the environment. The framework posits that people will choose to do an action based on their mental image of it. Thus, modification of the representation addresses the problem of intentionality.
Question Four
The rational choice theory does not indeed concern itself with solving the problem of intentionality. It operates on the assumption that people will pursue paths that are a source of the most utility one can get. They will, therefore, make decisions and take actions that reflect their mental state and awareness about their environment. Thus, it majorly explores and focuses on some determinants of aggregate behavior.
Question Five
Rational choice models attempt to explain the forces that drive individuals to behave in a specific manner. Disparities in behavior distinguish human beings. While some of the traits are measurable and can undergo empirical testing, others are not.
Question Six
Hybridization of segments of science refers to an intersection or recombination of mono-disciplinary fields. The process relates to the development of a system of co-existence between two components. The relationship between these units of science can follow two designs. It can thrive as an independent entity or exist by sharing dominance with other fields.
Question Seven
The fragmentation into specialized fields and specialization by hybridization has led to the remarkable advance of the natural as well as social sciences. The process entails an endless modification of the structures of the sciences. For example, political science has undergone various changes. By incorporating a part of political science into another unit, the process leads to a hybrid specialty.
Question Eight
Cumulative progress in the field of science refers to a linear change that occurs as more current scientific framework replaces the former ones. The term implies that shifts in paradigms do not necessarily disqualify past knowledge and theories. Instead, they use them as a basis for creating new approaches. The process results in a progressive accumulation of information that is vital to understanding critical concepts.
Question Nine
It makes sense to speak of a discipline of political science. There has occurred a diffusion of concepts across various disciplines. As a result, different fields contain relatively close knowledge and frameworks. Whereas the concepts covered in the field of political science have multiple origins, the discipline has several unique aspects best addressed by extensively studying it.
Question Ten
There is a core to the discipline of political science. The field covers diverse areas of interest such as psychology, geography, sociology, and anthropology. However, it has fundamental aspects that establish and affirm the relationships across the separate units. Thus, the central framework forms the discipline’s foundation.