According to economic models of rational behavior, how is voter turnout explained?

• A. Voter turnout is random and cannot be explained by any rational calculation.
• B. Individuals compare the expected benefits of voting, such as influencing the election outcome, to the costs, such as time and effort, and vote only if the benefits outweigh the costs.
• C. People vote only if they are required to by law, regardless of personal costs or benefits.
• D. Individuals always vote because it is a civic duty, regardless of any costs or benefits.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that economic models of rational behavior assume individuals make decisions by comparing costs and benefits to maximize their utility.
2. Identify the benefits of voting, which may include the expected influence on the election outcome and the satisfaction from fulfilling a civic duty.
3. Identify the costs of voting, such as the time, effort, and any other resources spent to participate in the election.
4. Formulate the decision rule: an individual will choose to vote if the expected benefits exceed the costs, i.e., if \(\text{Expected Benefits} > \text{Costs}\).
5. Recognize that this model explains voter turnout as a rational calculation rather than random behavior or compulsory action.