Question

One implication of the assumption of rationality is that __________.

A. states are unitary actors that can think about their actions coherently and make choices
B. while a state can identify its interests, putting priorities on them is nearly impossible
C. states are very rarely capable of performing cost-benefit analysis on actions
D. states' decisions always have beneficial consequences

Answer 1

The implication of the assumption of rationality is that states are considered coherent, unitary actors that make strategic choices based on cost-benefit analysis to maximize their own interests.

Step-by-step explanation:

One implication of the assumption of rationality is that states are unitary actors that can think about their actions coherently and make choices. This concept is central to realism in international relations, which posits that states act in a manner that seeks to maximize their own benefit, considering all possible variables and outcomes. When faced with decisions, states perform a cost-benefit analysis to compare the perceived costs against the perceived benefits and choose their actions accordingly. States are also deemed to be strategic in their actions, often withholding full transparency to protect their own interests and prevent exploitation by other states. The assumption of rationality does not mean that decisions always have beneficial consequences; rather, it entails that states make choices based on what they perceive will best serve their interests at the time, given the available information.