Social Dilemmas
A social dilemma occurs when individuals face a conflict between their personal interests and the collective good. In these situations, people may benefit from acting selfishly, but if everyone chooses this path, it can lead to negative outcomes for the group. Common examples include overfishing, pollution, and the depletion of shared resources.
These dilemmas highlight the challenges of cooperation and trust within communities. Solutions often involve creating incentives for individuals to prioritize group welfare, such as regulations or community agreements. Understanding social dilemmas is crucial for addressing issues like climate change and public health, where collective action is essential for success.