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Individual Rationality, Government and Morality, 2005.
Discusses Thomas Hobbes' view of the relationship between government, individual rationality and morality.
1,285 words (approx. 5.1 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 43.95
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Abstract
This paper argues that Thomas Hobbes believes that government is necessary in order to make morality individually rational. This argument is carried out by looking at the distinction between individual rationality and collective rationality (morality). The tension between these two concept is illustrated by the prisoner's dilemma thinking exercise. Drawing on the evidence of the prisoner's dilemma, the paper then explains how government makes it rational for people to be moral. Lastly, the paper briefly compares Hobbes' view with Kant's view of morality.
From the Paper
"Like individual rationality, collective rationality is also based on the natural right and desire of self-preservation. As the name entails, collective rationality is the exercise of reason to discover what is in the best interest of all. Three laws of nature are found by collective reasoning. Firstly, because survival is much easier in conditions of peace rather than in war, every one is to "seek peace, and follow it" (Hobbes, 404) unless there is a need for defense. Secondly, to foster peace, individuals have to surrender their rights to all things and "be contented with so much liberty against [others], as [they] would allow [others] against [themselves]" (Hobbes, 405)."
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Rationality, 2002.
A study of two organizational theories in order to understand the concept of rationality.
1,670 words (approx. 6.7 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 54.95
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Abstract
The paper shows that 'Rationality' is often assumed to be a desirable value by virtually all individuals who engage in business management decision-making. Or, perhaps a better way of phrasing this prioritization of the value of rational thinking and organization is to say that for a manager or a business to be called ?irrational? would be a profound insult to his or her competence. The paper discusses how a better understanding of rationality functions as an organizing principle within human relationships in the context of organizations, requires a more nuanced understanding of rationality. It compares two pioneers of organizational theory, Max Weber and H. A. Simon.
From the Paper
"The best way to deal with the complexity of modern life Weber stated, was the proliferation of legal-rational bureaucratic organizations. The key to Weber?s theory was that his designed structure could enable managers to standardize coordinated responses between individuals and individual units of workers, and not simply standardize specific production and operations. Weber suggested that the best way to manage a business or institution was to institute structural coordination controls through centralized, hierarchical, and highly departmentalized structures."
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Rationality, 2004.
Discussion on the human ability to practice rational thinking.
1,701 words (approx. 6.8 pages), 4 sources, APA, $ 55.95
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Abstract
This paper examines two of the systematic mistakes that humans tend to make when they make decisions that they are likely to consider to be rational. These include mistakes or inclinations toward both pessimistic and optimistic biases.
From the Paper
"Except, of course, that we?re not. But it is true that humans are relatively bad at purely rational thinking. This should not perhaps be surprising to us: We are not, after all, computers, which are far better than are humans at making rational decisions and providing rational calculations about situations. This is not entirely a bad thing: Humans have apparently (though the process of evolution) sacrificed the ability to make perfectly rational calculations for the ability to excel at what those who are trying to teach computers to think like humans call fuzzy thinking. We are good, for example, at being able to read another person?s internal emotional state by the tilt of their eyebrows but we are relatively bad at calculating the odds of whether to take another card in blackjack ? to the unending enrichment of the Las Vegas casinos."
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Lifestyle Advertising and the Breakdown of Rationality., 2002.
A look at these concepts with reference to George Orwell's writings.
1,150 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 3 sources, $ 44.95
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Abstract
This paper examines George Orwell's theme of how the tampering with language by the state project of power results in the emergence of double think as a form of the breakdown of rationality. The paper connects this to the popular acceptance of lifestyle advertising in capitalist society. What happens in this process is that a certain uniformity is molded and free choice is minimized.
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Human Rationality vs. Animals, 1998.
This paper analyzes the differences between humans and animals.
705 words (approx. 2.8 pages), 4 sources, $ 25.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the various characteristics that separate man from animals specifically the trait of rationality.
From the Paper
"Seeing things from the philosophical point of view, according to philosopher John Stuart Mill, rationality is summed up into having five qualifications: #1. Deduction: example: All seagulls are white. (major premise) This bird is black. (minor premise) Therefore this bird is not a seagull. (conclusion) #2. Induction: example: From particulars, we go to universals; example: After putting my hands in the fire a lot of times, I concluded fire burns. #3. Comparison: example: We compare and contrast then conclude something, we generalize. #4. Goals / Ends: example: Substantive rationality, we think and plan for future wants and needs. #5. Means / Tools: example: Instrumental rationality, we use means for an end. John Stuart Mill also broke down man as a person into having six distinctive qualities. #1. Personality, #2. conscience, #3. rationality, #4. feelings, #5. love, and #6. knowledge."
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Business Decisions Rationality, 2007.
An analysis of the shortcomings of various business decisions undertaken by the writer in a small business.
728 words (approx. 2.9 pages), 1 source, APA, $ 25.95
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Abstract
This paper examines a business decision undertaken by the writer within the past year. The paper expressly looks at the rational decision-making process and the six steps Max Bazerman identifies in "Judgment in Managerial Decision-making." It then illustrates the shortcomings of a computational approach and the errors of the writer in his business approach. In the end, the paper effectively argues that computational models to business decisions rarely work when human beings are involved because human beings are fairly unpredictable, dynamic company assets with emotions and feelings.
From the Paper
"In the end, it is clear that there are certain problems with the "fully rational" model of decision-making. Most of all, it assumes that all variables and eventualities can be accurately weighted - and this is simply not possible when unpredictable, volatile human beings are cast into the equation. Secondly, the process requires that managers have a thorough understanding of the problem before them before they begin the step-by-step march towards a rational solution (Bazerman 2006). Because it places so much emphasis upon mathematical calculations weighting different alternatives and criteria, the rational decision-making approach can easily lead to the wrong things being "added up" - with the predictably disastrous results. In the end, the process places too much emphasis upon quantifying things without appreciating the dynamics of their environment."
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Rational Choices in Irrational Lives, 2004.
A discussion as to what extent rational choice can be observed in everyday life.
4,015 words (approx. 16.1 pages), 15 sources, APA, $ 108.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the resurgent rise in social psychology of the questioning of rational choice in everyday life. It argues that rational choice can explain everyday behaviour only to the extent that the behaviour(s) under consideration can be said to flow from reasoned deliberation. The paper reviews conceptions of rationality; examines the concept of behaviour in and finally discusses the limits to which rational choice can be used to explain behaviour in everyday life.
Table of Contents:
Rationality and Rational Choice
A Question of Behaviour
Individual Behaviour
Group Behaviour
Spontaneous Behaviour
Premeditated Behaviour
Rational Choices, Everyday
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Questions of the extent to which rational choice can explain behaviour in everyday life are arguably ones of relatively recent creation. Aristotle arguably took for granted the fact that rational choices explained actions or behaviour. In book seven of his Nicomachean Ethics he clearly delineates that goals come from character, which he deems the non-rational part of humans, while action and the choices of ways to proceed toward those goals, ones choice of action or behaviour, flow from the intellect - the rational part of individuals. The Enlightenment thinkers developed his position and more than held to his commitment to rationality. The primacy they accorded reason, and humanity's ability to reason, played a great part in the formation of the Enlightenment ideal of rationality."
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Rational Thought, 2004.
A look at the fundamental aspects of rational thought.
690 words (approx. 2.8 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 23.95
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Abstract
This paper describes the fundamental aspects of rational thought and the common barriers to reasoning rationally. It defines rational thought and the process of reasoning and cites several barriers or obstacles to rational thought including unavailability of necessary knowledge, a disorder that prevents thinking at a rational level.
From the Paper
" The purpose of this paper is to describe the fundamental aspects of rational thought and discuss the most common barriers to rational reasoning. The paper begins ..."
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Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, 2002.
A review of "A Guide to Rational Living" which presents the theory of rational emotive behavior therapy.
1,327 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 44.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the concept of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) as presented in "A Guide To Rational Living" by Ellis and Harper. The writer then presents a personal application of REBT, and more specifically the concept presented in Chapter 7 "Overcoming the Influences of the Past" where REBT is applied to a learning experience in real life, through the experience of alcoholism.
From the Paper
"The mere fact that children need love, approval, and attachment, means that to be deprived of these needs would result in sadness, loneliness, and depression. When needs are not met, children and adults will tend to go beyond the original event and effort to make things better. Unfortunately, this attempt can lead to self-blame and beliefs that self-improvement would prevent future neglect. Overexertion toward becoming more deserving of love may ensue ("I absolutely must perform well") or the opposite may occur. The child may believe that there is no hope and life will always be void of love due to beliefs of unworthiness."
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"A Guide to Rational Living", 2002.
This paper details the many ways in which a person can learn how to adapt rationally, emotionally, and to use behavioral tools for personal situations in this discussion of Albert Ellis' book, "A Guide to Rational Living."
1,215 words (approx. 4.9 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 41.95
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Abstract
The author gives a detailed discussion of the different ways to deal with personal situations based on Albert Ellis' ?A Guide to Rational Living? that may cause some individuals to face inner-conflict. Some of the topics discussed include-- focusing on enjoyment as a tool for success and learning to identify patterns and potential problems. The author finds that the book not only shows you how to identify problem or potential problems, but it also offers constructive ways to overcome an individual's "perceived" problems.
From the Paper
"By adopting healthy ways of thinking, believing, and perceiving events, people can maintain a sense of well-being and joy while avoiding depression, anxiety, extreme anger or frustration, and physical illness. Avoiding self-defeating thoughts and belief constructs and adopting a type of thinking that is sometimes consistent with reality and sometimes twisted in a positive direction. Those individuals who find that they are reacting in unhealthy ways might want to examine their own cognitive constructs for evidence of dysfunctional or self-defeating thinking."
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Rational Thinking, 2002.
A comparative analysis of Plato's and John Searle's theories on rationality.
900 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 2 sources, $ 35.95
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Abstract
This paper will discuss the themes of rational thinking in philosophy by Plato, as well as those of John Searle. By understanding these two ways of thinking, we can come to an idea how they placed their theories in the scope of philosophy. Both theories will be compared and contrasted to understand them both.
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The Rational Choice Theory, 2004.
This paper discusses the development of the rational choice theory.
1,565 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 51.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the rational choice theory, which defines a rational action as the maximization of causal profit, was essentially developed as an economic theory, but has been extended to other realms as well. The author explains that the theory, which was expanded to the area of sociology by Max Weber, Talcott Parsons, and George Homans, was challenged for its lack of empirical support. The paper concludes that rational theory now has been thoroughly tested empirically and found to be based on a sound premise; the theory may not apply to all people in all situations, but it highlights a strong correlation between rationality and man?s decision making behavior.
From the Paper
"When we are faced with a decision, there are always some options involved. Which path is the correct one, which option would best serve our purpose, which choice appears most suitable are some of the key questions on which we base our decision. Man by nature is interested in maximization of his profits whether professional or personal. No one would deliberately want to take a risk that is bound to go awry. In almost every case, man carefully studies the situation and then chooses the best option available to him. And this is not something limited to money matters but extends itself to almost every area of life including social relationships, religion, politics and other areas."
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Max Weber's Rationalism & the Law, 1996.
Examines concepts of rationality, ideal types, legitimate authority, social order, bureaucracy, charisma & applicability to 20th Cent. (Martin Luther King, O.J. Simpson case).
4,950 words (approx. 19.8 pages), 16 sources, $ 135.95
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From the Paper
"The purpose of this research is to examine Max Weber's sociological theory of rationality and ideal types and the use of that theory as it applies to Weber's sociology of law. The plan of the research will be to set forth in general terms Weber's approach to social theory, and then to see whether and to what extent it is useful in explaining ambiguous social phenomena, particularly those that give rise to questions about the sociology of the legal system. To this end, reference will be made to certain legal ambiguities raised by illustrative cases.
No discussion of Weber's theory of the sociology of law would be complete without reference to his social theory in general and his multifaceted treatment of rationality in particular. Indeed, his treatments of society, rationality, and law persistently overlap and converge; Weber's thought is ..."
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Philippine Rationalization Programs, 2006.
This paper is a complete thesis studying the impact of the rationalization program (Executive Order 366) in selected national government agencies of the Republic of the Philippines.
15,535 words (approx. 62.1 pages), 33 sources, MLA, $ 249.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the bureaucracy of the government of the Republic of the Philippines has become bloated with employees, which has led to a number of rationalization policies by the government, such as Executive Order 366, to arrest this upsurge in the number of civil servants. The author points out that one of the research questions is to determine whether the lay-off of tens of thousands of government employees is justified in the sense that the savings of government from rationalization will indeed be delivered to basic social services. The paper concludes that, from the results of the survey and interviews, the rationalization program must be scrapped or deferred because it does not answer the fundamental problems of the fiscal deficit. This paper includes many table and graphs and the survey questionnaire.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Significance of the Study
Statement of Problem
Statement of Objectives
Review of Related Literature
Theoretical Framework
Conceptual Framework
Scope and Limitation
Background of the Study
View from the Government
Executive Order 366
View from Government Unions
Presentation of Data and Analysis
The Bigger Picture
Length of Service
The Underpaid Government Worker - Salary and Benefits
The Overworked Government Personnel - Status of Employment And Government Efficiency
Daily Cost of Living and Dependents
Participation in Government Employee Unions
Government Employee Sentiment on Rationalization
Conclusion and Recommendations
Appendix 1. Executive Order 366
Appendix 2. Implementing Rules and Regulations of Executive Order No. 366
Appendix 3. Survey Form for Government Employees
From the Paper
"The democratic space born out of the February 1986 revolution ushered in a new era in the Philippine labor movement. For almost half a century, the Philippines was the only country in Southeast Asia whose government employees did not enjoy full trade union rights or the system of free collective bargaining even as public sector unionism was a well established practice the world over. It is in the backdrop of this democratization process against a culture of repression and a consciousness of the role trade unions will play in the body politic that the Confederation of Independent Unions 'was formed."
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Rational Choice Theory and Post-Modernism, 2002.
Discussion of the Rational Choice Theory and the Post-Modernist Theory, and how these two different theories can, to some degree, be reconciled.
2,900 words (approx. 11.6 pages), 5 sources, $ 106.95
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Abstract
The development of Rational Choice Theory in the 20th century arose out of economic theory. Through such thinkers as Homans, Blau and Coleman it has emerged as an important school of thought. The theory focuses upon the rational calculations carried out by individuals guided by self-interest. Post-modernism, another contemporary theory, is in many ways in friction with rational choice theory, for the fundamental capitalist drive espoused by rational choice is seen as nothing but a social construct by the post-modern tradition. Alfred Schutz, a twentieth century phenomenologist, reconciles these two strains of thought to some degree by bringing up the notion of individual perception which encompasses both the social constructs and the drive for self-interest.
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