collective goods

Collective goods are benefits that are shared by everyone in a group or society, regardless of whether they contributed to their provision. Examples include clean air, national defense, and public parks. Because these goods are accessible to all, individuals might have little incentive to contribute voluntarily, risking under-provision, a challenge known as the "free rider problem." Managing collective goods often requires collective action, policies, or government intervention to ensure they are adequately provided and maintained for everyone's benefit.