WHAT IS collective action theory?

Collective action theory examines how individuals come together to achieve a common goal, particularly when faced with challenges like free-riding, where some individuals benefit from a group's efforts without contributing. The theory explores the conditions under which individuals will collaborate, emphasizing factors such as shared interests, communication, and trust. It highlights the importance of institutions and incentives in facilitating cooperation among individuals to overcome collective dilemmas. This framework is widely applied in fields such as political science, sociology, and economics.