For almost a century the representative agent in economic science was characterised byreason and sophistication, routinely and resolutely balancing costs and benefits when he had to take a decision. Since the discovery that people possess separate cognitive and affective brain regions, this character has been replaced by a myopic individual, who has to be supervised and trained to regain some self-control. This book challenges these assumptions, instead employing a dual system of decision making,which takes intoaccount the conflict between conscious and unconscious thought.Through a focuson conscious thought and decision making processes, the author brings morality back to rational choice theory, discussingthe justification of choices and comparing differing principles of justice.
PART I: UNDERSTANDING RATIONAL BEHAVIOUR Introduction Rational Choice Risky Choice Behavioural Economics Neuroeconomics Strategic Choice Social Choice Rethinking Rational Choice Theory PART II: HOW TO CHOOSE Introduction A Proper Choice Are Justifying Reasons Motivating? Framing and Ranking Commitment Neuroscience and Moral Reasoning Rational and Moral Action PART III: PRINCIPLES OF JUSTICE Introduction Justice as Impartiality Justice as Fairness Justice as Mutual Advantage Principles and Policies Equality, Liberty and Distributive Justice Epilogue