Identity, Interest and Action

Focusing on identity and political action, this book critiques rational choice theories by exploring why Sweden entered the Thirty Years War in 1630. Erik Ringmar posits that actions are driven more by identity than by self-interest, presenting a non-rational theory of action. He argues that Swedish leaders sought recognition for themselves and their nation through military intervention. The work emphasizes the significance of identity in understanding war and highlights the relevance of narrative theories within the social sciences.