ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Rational choice theory

Rational choice theory is a way of thinking about why people do the things they do. It says that people make decisions by trying to figure out which choice will be best for them. People will weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks of each option and choose the one that gives them the most benefits and least drawbacks. Basically, they make decisions based on what they think will give them the most happiness.