Contents

James M. Buchanan
Public choice theory and the rules of collective decisions.
The Calculus of Consent
- Born
- 3 October 1919
- Birthplace
- Murfreesboro
- Died
- 9 January 2013
More people
James M. Buchanan
American economist who applied economic reasoning to political institutions. Shared ideas on constitutional choice through work with Gordon Tullock and received the 1986 economics Nobel memorial prize.
Early life
Tennessee upbringing
Grew up on a family farm and studied at Middle Tennessee State Teachers College and the University of Tennessee. Completed his doctorate at Chicago in 1948.
Career
- 1940s
Naval service
Served in wartime operations planning before returning to academic study.
- 1962
Public choice
Published The Calculus of Consent with Gordon Tullock.
- 1986
Nobel recognition
Received the economics prize.
Selected work
The Calculus of Consent
Analysed the rules through which people make collective political choices.
Beyond work
Family and farming
Met Ann Bakke during wartime service and married her in 1945. They later spent much of their time on a working farm near Blacksburg.
Sources & photo credit
Biography and career ↗Biographical references ↗Original photograph. Cropped and displayed in monochrome.
Photo: Atlas Network Official website. CC BY-SA 3.0 · Original image. Cropped and displayed in monochrome.