Ulysses and the Sirens: Studies In Rationality And Irrationality

by Jon Elster

This book was first published in 1984, as the revised edition of a 1979 original. The text is composed of studies in a descending sequence from perfect rationality, through imperfect and problematical rationality, to irrationality. Specifically human rationality is characterized by its capacity to relate strategically to the future, in contrast to the myopic 'gradient climbing' of natural selection. There is trenchant analysis of some of the parallels proposed in this connection between the biological and the social sciences. In the chapter on imperfect rationality the crucial notion is that of 'binding oneself', as Ulysses did before setting out to the Sirens, when weakness of will may prevent us from using our capacity for perfect rationality. The second half of the book deals with rational-actor theory, comparing its logical power and success to rival approaches, and with the varieties of irrationality expressed in contradictory beliefs and desires.

Genres: Philosophy, Psychology, Economics, Sociology, Science, Nonfiction

204 pages, Paperback

First published May 3, 1979

About the author

Jon Elster ، born 22 February 1940, Oslo) is a Norwegian social and political theorist who has authored works in the philosophy of social science and rational choice theory. He is also a notable proponent of analytical Marxism, and a critic of neoclassical economics and public choice theory, largely on behavioral and psychological grounds.

In 2016, he was awarded the 22nd Johan Skytte Prize in Political Science for his contributions to political science.

Reviews

[Anthony Buckley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was a little disappointed with this book. It asks why people deliberately restrict their choices, binding themselves (like Ulysses resisting the lure of the Sirens)to prevent them doing what is in their own (or somebody's) best interests. Why, the author wonders,do people not simply do what they choose to do? It seemed like an interesting question, and a potent idea, but I felt the book rather petered out. I may return to it, however.

[Peter Merrill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gives a very good summary of the main topics related to rationality and when this concept (so used by economists) blurs and does not apply: individual rationality can lead to collective irrationality. Or the emotions (love and hate) can lead to contradictions.

[Will S · Rating 4 out of 5]

The title essay is deservedly a classic, but I found the rest of the collection far inferior.