free rider problem
Collective action dilemma
The free rider problem arises when individuals benefit from a shared resource without contributing to its cost or maintenance.
Classic examples include public broadcasting, national defense, or clean air—goods that benefit everyone regardless of who pays.
If enough people reason that others will cover the costs, the resource becomes underfunded or collapses: The HOA faced a free rider problem when half the homeowners stopped paying dues but still used the pool.
- freeloaderOne exploiting others' generosity
- moocherOne who cadges habitually
- shirkerOne who avoids duty
- public goodsShared, non-excludable resources
- tragedy of commonsShared resources, individual overexploitation
externality · collective action · bystander effect · cooperation · defector · loophole · contribution · fairness · parasite · exploit · cheater · incentive · commons · groupwork · fair share · slacker · social loafing · group project
free rider problemcivic participation
Active role in community affairs
collective responsibility · mutual aid · reciprocity · community engagement · paying one's dues
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