Abstract

Ruth Chang views rational choice as a comparison between the properties borne by the objects under consideration. According to her Comprehensive Value Approach , each choice situation is rationally resolved by a single value that determines the choice for that situation. This CVA is supposedly distinct from Orthodox Approaches that deny the necessity of comprehensive values in rational choice. Chang’s defense of the CVA depends on specific issues, namely, features of choice situations, the problem of fragmentation, and the problem of the unity of values. According to Chang, the CVA, but not the OA, can adequately address these issues. Unfortunately, regardless of whether we take Chang’s arguments as defending a cautious conclusion that the Comprehensive Value Approach is a prima facie plausible view of rational choice or a bold conclusion that there are defects in the OA not found in CVA, the arguments are insufficient to support these conclusions