What is the primary goal of rational choice voting?

The primary goal of rational choice voting is to select candidates perceived to serve personal interests. This approach is grounded in the idea that voters make decisions based on a calculated assessment of which candidates are most likely to enact policies or take actions that will benefit them directly. Rational choice theory posits that individuals are rational actors who weigh the potential outcomes of their choices, aiming to maximize their utility.

In this context, voters consider not just party affiliation or emotional appeal but focus on how candidates' positions align with their personal needs, preferences, and interests. This makes rational choice voting a strategic process where individuals evaluate the available options to identify who would best serve their individual or group priorities, such as economic interests, social policies, or other governance-related concerns.

This understanding of voting behavior emphasizes the importance of personal interests in electoral decisions, distinguishing it from emotional or historical factors, which may not directly reflect the rational assessment of candidates' potential to address voters' needs.