Final answer:
Rational ignorance leads to decreasing voter turnout because individuals may not find it worthwhile to become informed for a vote that is unlikely to be decisive. Though higher turnout is desired for a representative democracy, it creates tension with the need for an informed electorate. The internet reducing the cost of information may lead to increased turnout.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept of rational ignorance suggests that because an individual's single vote has a minimal chance of affecting the outcome of an election, the cost of becoming informed about all the issues and candidates may outweigh the perceived benefits. This can lead to a decrease in voter turnout, as per the student's original question, the answer is b. By decreasing voter turnout.
Rational ignorance may reduce the incentive for individuals to gather comprehensive information on candidates and issues before casting a vote, given the low probability that their vote will be decisive. In light of rational ignorance, it could be argued that encouraging greater voter turnout without simultaneously addressing the underlying issues of voter education and awareness might lead to increased uninformed voting. However, democratic ideals often promote the notion that higher voter turnout reflects a more engaged and representative electorate, so there is a tension between maximizing participation and ensuring an informed voter base.
Encouraging informed voting may involve reducing the costs or barriers to accessing information, for example through education campaigns or making extensive use of the internet and social media to disseminate information more widely. As the internet makes information easier to obtain, and if the costs of becoming informed decrease, it could be assumed that voter turnout should increase, according to conventional wisdom and studies on voter behavior.