Podcasts
EP 65 | Public Choice Theory – An Introduction | Policy Beyond Politics
Public Choice Theory Podcast Series
Public policy decisions shape the lives of every citizen, yet the process behind those decisions is often poorly understood.
This podcast series, produced by CPPR as part of the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) Whetstone Book Translation Project, introduces Malayalam-speaking audiences to the key concepts of Public Choice – A Primer by Dr Eamonn Butler.
What is Public Choice Theory?
Public Choice is a powerful framework that applies the tools of economics to politics. It challenges the belief that governments always act in the public interest and instead shows how voters, politicians, and bureaucrats behave in rational, self-interested ways—just like individuals in the marketplace.
By examining how incentives shape collective decisions, Public Choice Theory provides fresh insights into democracy, voting systems, bureaucracy, and governance.
Episode 1: Introduction to Public Choice
This episode dives into the fundamental question: What is Public Choice?
We explore the origins of Public Choice Theory, why it is a vital tool for understanding government decisions, and its relevance for citizens, students, and policymakers in Kerala and beyond.
The episode sets the stage for the rest of the series, establishing why Public Choice Theory is essential for making sense of politics and governance today.
About the Podcast:
This episode of Policy Beyond Politics is the first of a five-part series exploring the concept of Public Choice Theory, in the context of the book, “Public Choice: A Primer” authored by Dr Eamonn Butler and published by the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), United Kingdom.
Tune in for an insightful conversation that unpacks the hidden mechanics of power, incentives, and decision-making that quietly shape our everyday lives.
KEY DISCUSSION POINTS
- What is Public Choice, and why does it matter to ordinary citizens?
- Why do we apply economic thinking to politics, and what new insights does it reveal?
- How does Public Choice challenge the assumption that governments act purely in the “public interest”?
- Why is it important to study voting rules and decision-making systems?
- What real-world examples illustrate how political decisions can harm or benefit different groups in society?
Speakers:
Rahul V Kumar, Research Fellow (Market Economics), Centre for Public Policy Research (CPPR), Kochi
Moderator:
Jofi J Francis, Senior Associate (Project Administration), Centre for Public Policy Research (CPPR), Kerala
Click to read the Malayalam-translated eBook of “Public Choice: A Primer” by Dr Eamonn Butler, published by CPPR.
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