Methodological individualism

Cameron Tilley and Michael Munger

Chapter 63 in Elgar Encyclopedia of Public Choice, 2025, pp 441-446 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: When building any theory in social sciences, it is important to specify the unit of analysis. Possible units could be groups such as class, race, political party, or nation. Public choice emphasizes methodological individualism, where the individual is the unit of analysis since individuals are the only acting agents. What one might call group behavior or decisions only makes sense through the interactions of individuals. This chapter explains the history of methodological individualism and its implications. It also distinguishes methodological individualism from ethical individualism, which places normative importance on individuals over any group.

Keywords: Individualism; Social Phenomena; Microfoundations; Praxeology; Rational Choice Theory (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
ISBN: 9781802207743
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