Financial Times FT.com

Dear Economist...

By Tim Harford

Published: March 29 2008 00:52 | Last updated: March 29 2008 00:52

Dear Economist,
I’m an American. As you know, the primary elections are heating up here, and in a few months we’ll have the real thing. Eight years ago I caught flak from my wife for not voting; I tried pointing out the minuscule impact of a single vote (mine). She responded that if everyone thought as I did, no one would vote. However, I don’t make decisions for everyone, just myself. Is it rational for me to vote, considering only the effect of my vote on the outcome of the election, and leaving out (for once) my wife’s lowered opinion of me?
P.B.

Dear P.B.,

You have viewed your allowance of free articles. If you wish to view more, click the button below.

Read this