Tragedy of the Commons -- Article and Discussion Questions
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Last updated over 3 years ago
8 questions
1
Hardin asserts that the tragedy of the commons has no technical solution. Explain what he means by this statement.
Hardin asserts that the tragedy of the commons has no technical solution. Explain what he means by this statement.
1
Why would Hardin believe that “the most rapidly growing populations are the most miserable?”
Why would Hardin believe that “the most rapidly growing populations are the most miserable?”
1
Explain Hardin’s claim that “freedom in a commons brings ruin to all” using a real world example.
Explain Hardin’s claim that “freedom in a commons brings ruin to all” using a real world example.
1
In general, what are the two ways that the Tragedy of the Commons may be avoided?
In general, what are the two ways that the Tragedy of the Commons may be avoided?
1
To what extent are “commoners” (users of a commons) able to act to prevent a tragedy of the commons? In other words, under what conditions can a commons exist and not be destroyed or overused?
To what extent are “commoners” (users of a commons) able to act to prevent a tragedy of the commons? In other words, under what conditions can a commons exist and not be destroyed or overused?
1
Why does Hardin believe that we can’t just appeal to people’s conscience to prevent a tragedy of the commons? Specifically, how does this apply to his thoughts on breeding and population growth?
Why does Hardin believe that we can’t just appeal to people’s conscience to prevent a tragedy of the commons? Specifically, how does this apply to his thoughts on breeding and population growth?
1
What do you think Hardin means by “mutual coercion, mutually agreed upon”? Give an example from your own life.
What do you think Hardin means by “mutual coercion, mutually agreed upon”? Give an example from your own life.
1
To what extent do you agree with Hardin’s argument that “freedom to breed will bring ruin to all”?
To what extent do you agree with Hardin’s argument that “freedom to breed will bring ruin to all”?
