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Ambiguity, Contradictions, And Frustrations At The Ballot Box: A Public Choice Perspective

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  • William C. Mitchell

Abstract

A theoretical analysis of citizen participation in politics from a public choice perspective indicates that widespread apathy and disinterest are not aberrations in citizen behavior due to civic irresponsibility or the personal failings of individuals. Rather such responses are highly rational adapta‐ tions to a political system and political decision‐making process over which the individual has little control and participation in which, while demand‐ ing, yields few tangible returns. Elections and voting are poor mechanisms for aggregating choice, allocating resources or directing public policy.

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  • William C. Mitchell, 1990. "Ambiguity, Contradictions, And Frustrations At The Ballot Box: A Public Choice Perspective," Review of Policy Research, Policy Studies Organization, vol. 9(3), pages 517-525, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:revpol:v:9:y:1990:i:3:p:517-525
    DOI: 10.1111/j.1541-1338.1990.tb01059.x
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