Freeriding

Freeriding occurs when individuals benefit from resources, goods, or services without paying for or contributing to their cost. In economic and social contexts, it often happens when people enjoy the advantages of collective efforts, such as public goods or shared infrastructure, without sharing the burden of funding or maintaining them. This can lead to inefficiencies or under-provision, as everyone might expect others to pay while they benefit without contributing. In essence, freeriding is about gaining benefits without equitable participation or responsibility, which can undermine the sustainability of collective systems.