Sour Grapes
Studies in the Subversion of Rationality

This book is Jon Elster's influential study of irrationality, challenging orthodox theories of rational choice.

Jon Elster (Author)

9781316507001, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 26 August 2016

192 pages
23.1 x 15.3 x 1.4 cm, 0.28 kg

Drawing on philosophy, political and social theory, decision-theory, economics, psychology, history and literature, Jon Elster's classic book Sour Grapes continues and complements the arguments of his acclaimed earlier book, Ulysses and the Sirens. Elster begins with an analysis of the notation of rationality, before tackling the notions of irrational behavior, desires and belief with highly sophisticated arguments that subvert the orthodox theories of rational choice. Presented in a fresh series livery and with a specially commissioned preface written by Richard Holton, illuminating its continuing importance to philosophical enquiry, Sour Grapes has been revived for a new generation of readers.

Preface to this edition Richard Holton
Acknowledgements
1. Rationality
2. States that are essentially by-products
3. Sour grapes
4. Belief, bias and ideology
References
Index.

Subject Areas: Psychology [JM], Ethics & moral philosophy [HPQ]