Political Character

The video discusses the limitations of electoral control models based on rational choice theory, which often fail to consider the inherent character of politicians. It questions why legislators sometimes act in the interest of their constituents rather than their own, attributing this behavior to the threat of losing elections. The video also touches on principal-agent problems in economics, highlighting the discrepancy between theoretical incentives and observed political behavior, which is often consistent and unchanging due to character rather than rational incentives.

What is the core question regarding legislators' actions towards their constituents?

Explain the relationship between a legislator's self-interest and their decisions.

What is a principle-agent problem in the context of electoral systems?

Discuss the limitations of the rational choice explanation in understanding legislators' behavior.

How does the character of politicians influence their decision-making in office?