Ayn Rand Philosophy, Objectivism, Science, Self-interest

[MadMojoMonkey]

So rational actor = not a literal puppet?

Wait, are we literally saying that all creatures are rational actors, then?

This broad definition no longer even applies specifically to humans.

[wufwugy]

So rational actor = not a literal puppet?

Wait, are we literally saying that all creatures are rational actors, then?

This broad definition no longer even applies specifically to humans.

We're saying that people are preferential actors and that it is rational to be preferential. In a sense, this is the most basic type of rationality. It's not a thoroughly thoughtful abstraction, but it certainly makes sense that when the options are (1) act on preference, (2) do not act on preference, or (3) act or do not act on preference randomly, then (1) is the most rational.

I don't see anything wrong with the point that it could apply to other species, other than it not being terribly useful since we're not modeling economic behavior of other species.