b. 1945
Todd Sandler is a contemporary American economist and political scientist best known for his foundational work on collective action, public goods theory, and the economics of terrorism. He has made substantial contributions to understanding how rational actors cooperate or fail to cooperate in providing non-excludable, non-rival goods. His research bridges economics, political science, and public policy.
Developed influential frameworks for analyzing transnational collective action problems
Pioneered the economic analysis of terrorism and its policy implications
Extended Olson's collective action theory to international and alliance settings
Applied public goods theory to NATO burden-sharing and defense economics
Authored foundational texts including 'Collective Action: Theory and Applications'