Rationality debate

The question:

Critically discuss the theoretical and empirical evidence that humans are rational thinkers.
? Provide a detailed description of the rationality debate.
? Outline and evaluate the contribution of 1) Dual-process theory, 2) Bounded-unbounded rationality and 3) Behavioural economics.
? Outline and evaluate some empirical research on rationality.
The general requirement for a good answer is to:
? Be well-written, showing evidence of sound argument and critical insight.
? Show reading of relevant recent research and an ability to integrate this research into the answer in a well-structured manner.
? Identify contradictory findings and/or gaps in literature
? Integrate findings from the different theories, e.g. dual process, argumentative, normative, bounded-unbounded rationality, and behavioural economics.
? Discuss research and theory
? Evaluate the empirical research you present
? Consider how it tests theories
? Is it consistent with other research in the area
? Evaluate theories
? How do they differ from rival theories
? What evidence supports them
? Directly relate each piece of research and each theory to the question of rationality (does it suggest we are [ir]rational and why).
? *Include a wide range of sources ? primarily journal articles.
? Argue for a position and then take the opposite perspective ? what would someone say if they wanted to prove you wrong.
? Side with the evidence and weight of argument
A good macro level
A good micro level

ESSAY (TOTAL 2750 words)
INTRODUCTION (250 words)
? General intro to the rationality debate.
BODY (2250 words total). Try to have a smooth transition between the paragraphs)

? PARAGRAPH 1. Dual-process theory (750 words)
o (Does it suggest we are rational or irrational and why).

? PARAGRAPH 2. Bounded-unbounded rationality (750 words)
o (Does it suggest we are rational or irrational and why).