(L3) Hardin Tragedy Of The Commons Flashcards
What is the introduction of Hardin’s article about?
The introduction discusses how some societal problems, like the arms race, require changes in human values or morality, not just technical solutions. It sets the context for discussing complex issues like overpopulation and resource depletion.
What is the concept of non-technical problems in the article?
Hardin explains that not all societal or environmental problems can be resolved with science or technology alone. These issues often require a fundamental shift in how society approaches and thinks about problem-solving.
What does Hardin say about finite resources and population growth?
Hardin points out that Earth’s resources are limited, meaning that continuous population growth is unsustainable. He challenges the notion of maximizing common good by stating that it’s mathematically and biologically impossible to maximize all variables like population and resources simultaneously.
What is the implicit message about addressing the tragedy of the commons?
The underlying message is that solving the tragedy of the commons requires more than policy changes or technological advancements; it necessitates a shift in the moral and ethical framework of society.
What does Hardin argue about maximizing population versus goods?
Hardin argues against the notion that a larger population maximizes the availability of goods. He suggests that an optimal population is lower than the maximum possible, considering the constraints of resources and the difficulty in defining ‘optimal’ conditions.
How does the text address the incommensurability of goods?
The article acknowledges that while goods may seem impossible to compare, practical judgment and weighting can be used, much like natural selection balances survival needs against available resources.
What is the tragedy of the commons?
The tragedy of the commons refers to a situation where individuals, acting in their own self-interest, overuse and deplete shared resources, leading to long-term collective loss.
How does education relate to the tragedy of the commons?
Education is presented as a tool to counter the natural tendency to exploit shared resources. It emphasizes the need for continual learning and awareness to understand and mitigate the impacts of individual actions on the commons.
What does the text say about system-sensitive morality?
Hardin suggests that the morality of actions should be evaluated based on the state of the system at the time. This means considering the specific circumstances and complexities of modern society rather than applying a one-size-fits-all ethical approach.
What are the challenges in legislating temperance and personal behavior?
The article acknowledges the difficulty in creating laws that regulate personal behavior, like temperance. It suggests that well-designed administrative laws can help balance personal freedoms with societal needs.
What does the principle of overbreeding imply about modern society?
Hardin discusses how, in nature, overbreeding is checked by survival challenges, but in modern society, this natural check is complicated by social welfare systems and the collective responsibility for all families.
How does the text critique the use of conscience as a tool for protecting the commons?
Hardin argues that relying on individual conscience to protect shared resources is ineffective and can erode moral standards, leading to greater long-term detriment.
What does the text say about the use of guilt as a social tool?
The article challenges the traditional view of guilt as a beneficial social tool. It suggests that guilt often leads to inaction and is more about self-focus rather than fostering constructive societal change.
What is Hardin’s view on property and legal inheritance?
Hardin questions the justice and effectiveness of the current system of private property and legal inheritance, highlighting its inconsistencies and potential to perpetuate inequalities.
How does Hardin address the concept of inaction in the context of reform?
Hardin emphasizes that choosing not to act on necessary reforms is itself a significant action with consequences. He stresses that inaction is not a neutral stance and has its own impact on societal and environmental issues.
