What is commons dilemma?

The commons dilemma refers to a situation in which individuals, acting in their own self-interest, exploit a shared resource to the extent that it becomes depleted or damaged, ultimately harming the collective group. This dilemma highlights the conflict between individual benefits and the long-term sustainability of communal resources, such as fisheries, forests, or clean air. It illustrates the challenge of balancing personal gain with the need for cooperation and collective responsibility to preserve shared resources for future generations.