In particular, social choice theoretic methods are often used to describe and (axiomatically) analyze the performance of rules or institutions.
The outcomes of the rules or institutions described are then analyzed by game theory, where the individuals/parties/nations involved in a given interaction are modeled as rational agents playing a game, guided by self-interest.
Based on this assumption, the outcome of the interactions can be predicted as an equilibrium of the game.
PPT also permits the identification of institutional and contextual mechanisms that give some group members additional influence in determining collective outcomes.
By focusing on the mechanisms, PPT also allows researchers to determine if outcomes are a result of asymmetric bargaining or deliberative persuasion.