When a group of neighbours ask a householder to tidy his front garden because they keep their own gardens tidy and attractive, they are attempting to use moral codes and social sanctions to internalize the externality associated with an untidy garden in a residential area.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The group of neighbours is using moral codes and social sanctions to encourage the householder to take responsibility for the externalities (i.e. the negative effects on the neighbourhood) associated with an untidy garden. By asking the householder to tidy their front garden, the neighbours are attempting to promote a shared social norm of maintaining a clean and attractive living environment.

When a Group of Neighbours Ask a Householder to Tidy