The Pendle witch trials: a rational choice analysis

Purpose This study aims to test whether the events of the Pendle witch trials of 1612 in Lancashire, England, which saw the execution of nine people for charges of witchcraft, can be given a purposive explanation using the tools of rational choice theory and game theory, rather than being an outbreak or irrational witch-hysteria. Design/methodology/approach The analysis employs two standard economic theories: the theory of the firm and the theory of consumer behaviour. It applies these to religious organisations (such as churches) and individuals operating within the marketplace of religious ideas, including those who practice magic. It also employs various game-theoretic tools. Findings A detailed analysis of the historical record confirms the hypothesis. The events surrounding the trials are capable of being explained via the interests and resulting actions of the main parties – investigating magistrate, trial judges and court recorder, and the accused parties – that is, purposive, rather than based on non-rational motivations. Originality/value The study contributes new insights to a growing literature on rational choice studies of religious behaviour and adds to its claim of robustness in explaining phenomena at the macro and micro levels. It is the first such analysis of the historic Pendle episode and sheds new light on the motives of the parties involved.