The Rational Choice Theory as the Explanation of Coalition Formation in Germany 2017-2018

Abstract

The present article offers an explanation of the coalition negotiations and government formation in the German Federal Republic based on the rational choice theory and coalition formation theory. Despite numerous prognoses of the process failure and significant electoral defeat the Chancellor Angela Merkel has found the ways and arguments to convince political rivals on the Coalition Agreement. The success was immediately explained by some observers as the “conspiracy theory” practical realization. Nevertheless there is a deeper reasoning in the Merkel’s arguments first of all of the rational character. This article presents a description of the rationale from the Eastern Europe researchers’ point of view. The results of this study might be used as a methodological approach to complex political processes analysis.