Religion in Latin America

Conference Papers & Current Trends

Discussion of Rational Choice Theory

Round 1: Viewpoints from across the Spectrum

An Economist-Non-Latin Americanist's Viewpoint

William Marquis, O.P., Assistant Professor and Treasurer, Providence College

Read Gill's rejoinder

My general impression is highly positive about the use of economic models to deal with explanations of religion. Gill has done an excellent job in the general presentation of the argument.

There remains much work to be done by Gill. His treatment of economic preferences lacks an adequate development. Nonetheless, I believe Gill is certainly on the right path for developing a theory which helps us to understand religious behavior.