Chapter 2: A Theory of the Value of Children
Debra Friedman
,
Michael Hechter
, and
Satoshi Kanazawa
Category:
Monograph Chapter
Published:
06 Dec 2019
Page Range:
26–52
Collection:
Social and Political Science 2019
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.4337/9781789903256.00008
Restricted access

This paper uses a non-standard value assumption – uncertainty reduction – to explain parenthood. We begin by reviewing the inadequacies of normative and standard rational choice explanations of shifts in fertility behavior. Then we propose a theory of the value of children based on the uncertainty-reduction assumption. Next we generate a range of hypotheses that follow both from this assumption and from a subsidiary assumption of marital solidarity enhancement. Finally, we explore the extent to which implications based on these new ideas are supported by the relevant empirical literature.

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Cover Rational Choice Sociology
Rational Choice Sociology
Monograph Book
Published:
06 Dec 2019
Print ISBN:
9781789903249
eISBN:
9781789903256
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.4337/9781789903256
Pages:
c 384
Collection:
Social and Political Science 2019
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