About the Author

S. M. Amadae is a research fellow in the Office for History of Science and Technology at the University of California, Berkeley.

Reviews

"A most interesting examination of the evolution of rational choice theory within economics, political science, and philosophy, and she describes as well how its emergence fits into the intellectual politics of the cold war era. The depth of reading and analysis is most impressive . . . Rationalizing Capitalist Democracy is an excellent work of research and a useful, engaging presentation of ideas. It will repay reading by all economists, historians, and political scientists interested in the development of ideology."--Stanley L. Engerman "Business History Review"

"That which emerges from separately pursued paths of scientific inquiry often has a coherence that only an external observer can discern. As a protagonist in this book's story line, I welcome Amadae's integration of public choice ideas into the more comprehensive vision that was never a part of my intent."James Buchanan, 1986 Nobel Laureate in Economics--James Buchanan, 1986 Nobel Laureate in Economics

"Superb.Rationalizing Capitalist Democracy is unique in its grand program and its coverage. It will be widely read by both advocates and opponents of rational choice theory. Every rational choice theorist will learn from it. Some will reinterpret what they thought they knew of parts of the theory; all will gain perspective on the massive enterprise."Russell Hardin, Stanford University and New York University--Russell Hardin, Stanford University and New York University

"Truly excellent, S. M. Amadae's Rationalizing Capitalist Democracy convincingly shows how heavily the modern rise of rational choice perspectives has been shaped by the incubating role of RAND in particular and, even more fundamentally, by the Cold War context. Along the way, Amadae provides fascinating insights into the work and careers of key figures like Kenneth Arrow, Duncan Black, James Buchanan, William Riker, and John Rawls. This book makes a substantial and original contribution to modern intellectual history."Rogers Smith, University of Pennsylvania--Rogers Smith, University of Pennsylvania

"[Amadae] explains how the RAND Corporation's systems analysis and rational policy analysis became normative standards in governmental decision making. There are arresting insights into the whole ensemble of defense establishment leaders and institutions. . . . This is . . . a sophisticated, substantive, and balanced interpretation. Readers will come away from this book with a nuanced and enhanced understanding of many vital and enduring themes in contemporary political thought. This is an exemplary study in modern intellectual history. It is well positioned to reconfigure the contours of the rational choice theory landscape and its legacy."--Frank Annunziata "Journal of American History"