After a yearlong drought, the city of Pine Bluffs has banned all lawn sprinkling. Many residents believe, however, that continued watering of their own lawn will have little effect on total water reserves. Consequently, there is a disastrous drain on city water reserves caused by widespread illegal sprinkling. This incident best illustrates the dynamics of

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The scenario presented in the question best illustrates the dynamics of social traps. The residents' belief that their own watering practices would have little effect on total water reserves is an example of individual rationality, while the widespread illegal sprinkling and the resultant drain on city water reserves is an example of the negative consequences of collectively irrational behavior. This scenario presents a common problem in environmental psychology, where self-interest and short-term gains can result in long-term negative consequences for the community as a whole.

After a Yearlong Drought, the City of Pine Bluffs Has