Manifesto for a Theory of Drama and Irrational Choice

The rational choice paradigm underlying decision theory, game theory, and mathematical economics is social sciences' most general mathematical model. Many have pointed out its limitations, but none has offered an equally powerful and wide-ranging deductive system. A way of analyzing emotional and political aspects of choice largely neglected by existing rational choice models, yet maintaining a clear mathematical structure, is presented. As an integrating metaphor, it is proposed to view situations not as games, but as dramas. Enacted dramas, like games, can be used for instruction as well as entertainment. Role-playing exercises are well-established in practice. Drama theory has a wide range of other potential applications. Two are currently being investigated: 1. the achievement of a quality culture in organizations, and 2. the structure and dynamics of potential new world orders. In each of these cases what is needed is not a rational solution. The key is more likely to lie in the self-realization by the characters involved.