The rational choice generalization of neoclassical economics reconsidered:Any theoretical legitimation for economic imperialism?

The article reconsiders the generalization of neoclassical economics by mod ern rational choice theory. Hence, it reexamines the possible theoretical g rounds or lack thereof within neoclassical economics for economic imperiali sm implied in much of rational choice theory. Some indicative instances of rational choice theory's generalization of neoclassical economics are revie wed. The main portion of the article addresses the question as to whether n eoclassical economics allows its generalization in rational choice theory a nd thus legitimizes economic imperialism. Presented are a number of pertine nt theoretical reasons why neoclassical economics does not fully justify if s generalization into rational choice as a general social theory particular ly into an over-arching economic approach to social action and society Also discussed are some theoretical implications of the rational choice general ization of neoclassical economics. The main contribution of the article is to defect lack of a strong theoretical rationale in much of neoclassical ec onomics for rational choice theory's manifest or latent economic imperialis m.