63. Methodological individualism

When building any theory in social sciences, it is important to specify the unit of analysis. Possible units could be groups such as class, race, political party, or nation. Public choice emphasizes methodological individualism, where the individual is the unit of analysis since individuals are the only acting agents. What one might call group behavior or decisions only makes sense through the interactions of individuals. This chapter explains the history of methodological individualism and its implications. It also distinguishes methodological individualism from ethical individualism, which places normative importance on individuals over any group.