The Logic of Collective Action: Public Goods and the Theory of Groups

"The Logic of Collective Action" explores how individuals decide whether to contribute to shared goals, like public goods (e.g., clean air or national defense). It explains that people may hesitate to contribute, expecting others to do the work, leading to potential under-provision of these goods. The theory emphasizes that group size and individuals’ incentives influence collective effort; larger groups face more free-riding issues, making cooperation harder. Overall, it sheds light on the complexities of group action and the importance of incentives and organization in achieving common goals.