This book develops an original theory of group and organizational behavior that cuts across disciplinary lines and illustrates the theory with empirical and historical studies of particular organizations. Applying economic analysis to the subjects of the political scientist, sociologist, and economist, Mancur Olson examines the extent to which the individuals that share a common interest find it in their individual interest to bear the costs of the organizational effort.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

1. A theory of groups and organizations -- 2. Group size and group behavior -- 3. The labor union and economic freedom -- 4. Orthodox theories of state and class -- 5. Orthodox theories of pressure groups -- 6. The 'by-product' and 'special interest' theories.