Uma comparação de abordagens sobre a identidade dos decisores econômicos

Abstract

This work performs a theoretical investigation through a comparative deductive method using theoretical frameworks based on Demo (1987). This comparison is based on two books: Identity Economics: How our Identities Shape our Work, Wages, and Well–Being of George Akerlof and Rachel Kranton and A Primer on Decision Making: How Decisions Happen, by James March. Thus, the general objective is to propose categories based on an exploratory reading of both books. The specific objectives are, considering the importance of the concept of individual in Economics, (i) to present the basic elements for the construction of the homo economicus; and (ii) to present criticisms directed at the homo economicus. Some of the considerations obtained from this study are that Akerlof and Kranton do not break from the subjective expected utility theory, expressing more individualistic, methodological and rational elements, while James March develops a very different theoretical construction, which represents a new theory that breaks from that of expected utility, conceptualizing an individual with a greater focus on methodological holism and normativity, whose behavior is based upon different aspects than what is theorized by Akerlof and Kranton and the subjective expected utility theory.