free rider theory

Free rider theory suggests that some individuals benefit from resources, goods, or services without contributing to their cost. This often occurs in public goods, like clean air or national defense, where it's difficult to exclude anyone from using them. Since people can enjoy these benefits without paying, they might choose not to contribute, relying instead on others to do so. This can lead to underfunding and depletion of resources because there’s less incentive for individuals to support them financially, which can undermine the provision of essential services or goods that everyone relies on.