The public choice approach emerged prominently during the 1960s and 1970s as a critique of traditional approaches to public administration and the expanding role of the state. Associated with scholars such as James Buchanan, Gordon Tullock, William Niskanen and Vincent Ostrom, it applies economic theories and concepts to the study of government, bureaucracy and public decision-making. It views public administration not as a purely neutral or benevolent activity but as a process in which individuals pursue their own interests within institutional arrangements. A major feature of the public choice approach is the assumption of individual rationality and self-interest. It argues that individuals in government are not fundamentally different from individuals in markets. Politicians, bureaucrats, voters and citizens are assumed to make choices based partly on their own interests, incentives and preferences. Therefore, public officials cannot always be expected to act solely in the public interest. Another important feature is the application of economic principles to