Discuss Anthony Downs’ views on Public Choice Approach.

Anthony Downs, an American economist, contributed significantly to the Public Choice Approach, a framework that applies economic principles to the analysis of political decision-making. In his influential work, "An Economic Theory of Democracy" (1957), Downs introduced key insights that have shaped the field.

Downs emphasized the role of self-interest in political behavior, asserting that individuals, including voters and politicians, act rationally to maximize their own utility. According to Downs, voters make decisions based on their preferences and expectations of how policies will impact them personally. Politicians, in turn, are motivated by the pursuit of votes and, once elected, prioritize policies that enhance their chances of re-election.

One of Downs' notable contributions is the concept of "rational ignorance," suggesting that voters may choose not to acquire extensive information about political issues due to the perceived minimal impact of their individual vote on the overall outcome. This rational ignorance challenges the traditional assumption of well-informed voters in democratic systems.

Downs' Public Choice Approach has had a lasting impact on political science and economics, providing a lens through which to analyze political processes, bureaucratic behavior, and the functioning of democratic institutions. His work continues to influence discussions on the rationality of political actors and the dynamics of decision-making in the realm of public policy.