"Theories of the Commons"

Theories of the Commons explore how shared resources—like forests, fisheries, or public land—are managed and sustained by communities or individuals. They examine the challenges of overuse and depletion and propose ways to govern these resources effectively. These theories consider factors such as cooperation, rules, and social norms, emphasizing that with proper management, common resources can be maintained sustainably without privatization or government control. The goal is to balance individual interests with collective well-being, ensuring resources remain available for future generations while respecting local practices and knowledge.