Score contribution per author:
α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count
This book is useful in many important respects. Olson clearly shows that large groups have a tendency not to be formed unless they provide some divisible service for its members; consequently, existing group theorizing is often erroneous. The book is packed with suggestive thought; Olson is a provocative scholar. Many further efforts will undoubtedly owe much to his fine effort. Even the sometimes unfavorable comments about his inadequate consideration of the institutions through which individuals interact would remain unthought without Olson's provocation. After all, he was primarily concerned about the inability to achieve large-group organization; implications for the advancement of group interests were secondary. In short, The Logic of Collective Action is an excellent buy for all students of collective activity. Copyright Thomas Jefferrson Center for Political Economy, Rouss Hall, University of Virginia 1966