Tragedy of the Commons Quiz

What is the tragedy of the commons?

• A situation where individuals prioritize the common good over their own self-interest

• A situation where individuals prioritize their own self-interest over the common good

• A situation where individuals have no impact on the common resources

• A situation where individuals have unlimited access to common resources

What was the original example of the tragedy of the commons described by William Forster Lloyd?

• Overgrazing of cattle on village common areas

• Overfishing in a local pond

• Pollution caused by a coal-fired power plant

• Overpopulation in a small village

What is the key feature of a tragedy of the commons?

• Individuals have no motivation to take more than their fair share of resources

• Individuals prioritize the common good over their own self-interest

• Individuals are not affected by the depletion of common resources

• Individuals benefit themselves while minimizing negative effects on the larger population

What is the long-term consequence of overuse of antibiotics?

• Decreased common illnesses

• Increased livestock production

• Evolution of antibiotic-resistant bacteria

• Improved overall population health

What is the solution to the tragedy of the commons according to the text?

• Individuals should prioritize their own self-interest

• Continue overusing common resources

• Ignore the negative effects on the larger population

• Form social contracts and make communal agreements