This week we are examining the academic journal article Rational Fools (1977) by

This week we are examining the academic journal article Rational Fools (1977) by Nobel Prize winning economist Amartya Sen. In the article, Sen poses serious challenges of the traditional conception of rationality as defined within economics. For this reading quiz, you will be writing a short essay addressing the questions below. While answering the following questions, please have your total answer be at least 250 words but less than 500 words.
1. Recall our Unit 2 module on utility and consumer choice. What is the role of rationality in the traditional model we discussed? How does a rational agent act?
2. Sen draws a distinction between “sympathy” and “commitment.” Which of these behaviors fits in to the traditional model and which does not? Why?
3. What are some examples of behaviors which the traditional model struggles to explain which ultimately lead Sen to call the traditional rational agent a “social moron”?
4. What do you think of his critique? (no right or wrong answer)