The following text is about economics.
The "tragedy of the commons" describes how shared resources can be depleted when individuals act in self-interest. If villagers each add more sheep to common grazing land, overgrazing destroys the pasture for everyone. However, economist Elinor Ostrom showed that communities often successfully manage commons through cooperative agreements, challenging the assumption that only privatization or government control can prevent tragedy. Her work, which earned the 2009 Nobel Prize, demonstrated that local institutions develop sustainable solutions when given appropriate conditions.
How did Ostrom's research change understanding of commons management?
It proved government control is always necessary
It showed communities can effectively manage shared resources cooperatively
It demonstrated that privatization is the only solution
It proved the tragedy of commons is inevitable
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the correct answer. The text states Ostrom showed "communities often successfully manage commons through cooperative agreements" and that "local institutions develop sustainable solutions."
- Evidence: Success through cooperation, not just privatization or government.
- Reasoning: Community solutions were previously overlooked.
- Conclusion: Cooperative community management works.
Choice A is incorrect because Ostrom challenged this assumption. Choice C is incorrect because she showed alternatives to privatization. Choice D is incorrect because her examples show tragedy can be avoided.