Question

Based on the theory of rational ignorance, what should we expect to happen to voter turnout as the internet makes information easier to obtain?

Short answer

We expect to make decisions based on future risks.

Step-by-step solution

Step 1. Definition

Rational ignoranceis holding back from obtaining knowledge when the cost of educating on an issue exceeds the expected potential benefit that the knowledge would provide.

Rational ignorance helps to decide what information would be most convenient. Rational ignorance means choosing to remain uninformed on a topic because the cost of obtaining the information is more than the potential benefits.

Step 2. Explanation

Because of rational ignorance, we expect voter turnout to be on the positive side as the eligible voters will interestingly cast their votes because of the easy flow of information now.

As the voters are rationally ignorant and they may think that their votes are not going to change anything if they vote or if they don’t vote so they vote because of their interest because of the easy availability of information on the internet