https://at-ceu.studyguide.timeedit.net/modules/UGST4065?type=COREThis course is an introduction to theories of rational choice and collective action in political economy. At its core, rational choice theory offers a simple but powerful idea: political and economic outcomes can be understood as the result of individuals pursuing their self-interest. But does self-interest really explain how the world works? Why do people cooperate when they have incentives to free-ride? Why do some countries manage their natural resources sustainably while others do not? Why is it so hard to address climate change? How do institutions, trade, and inequality shape who wins and who loses in the economy? This course explores these questions by introducing the key concepts of rational choice and collective action and applying them to important topics in political economy, including common resource problems, climate change, rent seeking, international trade, institutions, redistribution, and economic crises. Along the way, we will critically examine the strengths and weaknesses of rational choice as an approach to understanding the relationship between politics and economics. No formal mathematical training is required-the emphasis is on theoretical reasoning and real-world applications.