This paper formulates a simple mathematical framework for the selection of an optimum "relative unanimity” collective decision rule. The approach is first to identify the benefits of moving from a rule of simple majority towards a rule of full unanimity. Then, the costs of moving from simple...

This empirical note reformulates a model for testing the hypothesis that migration of the poor and welfare levels are bi-directionally related. After correcting for co-linearity in a previous model, the new model yields two-stage least squares estimates that affirm the hypothesis once again.

This theoretical note argues that although both gross costs and possible gross benefits from the Electoral College can be identified, they cannot be compared in such a way as to generate a case that the Electoral College yields net benefits to society. In other words, the Electoral College...

This study seeks to expand the scope of that portion of Public Choice courses that involves voting behavior. The study broadens the interpretation of the "rational voter model" so as to include the potential effects of "direct democracy" on the voter participation rate. Direct democracy is...

This study provides a simple interpretation and extension of the Rational Voter Model (RVM), one which enables students in Public Choice classes to easily understand its application in a real-world context. In doing so, the presentation identifies key aggregate-level economic and non-economic...

This study provides a preliminary empirical investigation as to whether black-consumer voters were attracted by the prospect of higher AFDC benefits as they made interstate migration decisions over the 1970-75 time period. Unlike most previous studies, there was no compelling evidence of such a...