In the context of social dilemmas, what does the term 'commons' refer to?

The term 'commons' in the context of social dilemmas refers to a shared resource that is limited. This concept is crucial in understanding how individuals may behave in relation to collective goods. In a 'commons' scenario, each individual has access to a resource that is available to all, such as fisheries, water sources, or grazing land. However, because this resource is limited, overuse or exploitation by one individual can lead to depletion, ultimately harming the group as a whole.

The dilemma arises as individuals face the temptation to maximize their own benefits, often at the expense of the group's sustainability. Therefore, the concept of commons highlights the challenge of balancing individual interests with the well-being of the community, illustrating the conflicts that can occur when individuals prioritize personal gain over collective responsibility. This makes the understanding of 'commons' foundational for discussions surrounding resource management and cooperative behavior in social psychology.