The new institutionalism: predatory rule, institutional persistence,and macro-social change

Abstract

A renewed focus on institutions in a number of fields of social science has given rise to a variety two contrasing apporaches under the common label of the ‘new institutionalism’. This essay reviews two contrasting approaches which have claimed the name, one deriving from rational choice theory, the other from the rejection of rational choice theory in favour of a behavioural perspective. A sketch of the origins and character of these apporches is followed by a detailed critique of each, supported by critical readings of a number of key texs which have appiled them to case-studies of macro-social change. I conclude that while a number of valuable issues are raised, neither version can provide of itself a basis for an understanding of long-term social change.