'''"Rational behavior"''' is behavior that maximizes utility by concurrently maximizing [[benefit]]s and minimizing [[cost]]s. It is called "[[rational]]" under the assumption that such self-interested behavior befits any rational beingwho is a '''rational actor''' (that is, one who acts rationally, with a degree of [[Discernment|discerning]] [[intelligence]]).
The term is frequently used in [[economics]].
The [[rationalism|rationality]] in this case is [[morals|morally]] [[neutrality|neutral]]: it may prevent a person from [[anti-social]] behavior by reminding him of the attendant costs (i.e. punishment), but may encourage "[[immoral]]" acts if an individual views them as the most efficient choice in his circumstances. Rational behavior is further complicated when [[utility]] interdependence is taken into consideration - i.e., when the individual seeks not only utility for himself, but also utility for others, such as his loved ones.
== See also ==
[[Moral relativism]]
[[Specious reasoning]]
== Sources ==