Unit 5.1-5.7

What is the definition of the tragedy of the commons?

• when humans overuse a natural resource

• when the short-term, positive effects go to the individual, while the long-term, negative effects are spread out to the group

• when humans act selfishly, thinking of the own interest

• when plants and animals compete for space, resources, and/or food

Answer explanation

The tragedy of the commons occurs when individuals prioritize short-term benefits, leading to overuse of resources, while the negative consequences affect the entire group in the long run.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-5

Which of the following are both examples of the tragedy of the commons?

• overfishing and earthquakes

• flooding and tsunamis

• pollution and overpopulation

• super-germs and virus outbreaks

Answer explanation

Pollution and overpopulation are classic examples of the tragedy of the commons, where individual actions deplete shared resources, leading to negative consequences for the community and environment.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-4

The theory of the "tragedy of commons" was written by

• Garret Hardin

• Dr Seuss

• Richard Bachman

• William Forest Lloyd

Answer explanation

The theory of the "tragedy of the commons" was introduced by Garret Hardin in his 1968 essay, highlighting the conflict between individual interests and the common good in resource management.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-4

Which of the following is an example of a solution to the tragedy of the commons?

• Improving literacy among urban populations

• Inventing stronger antibiotics

• Raising taxes for large corporations

• Passing laws to prevent overharvesting

Answer explanation

Passing laws to prevent overharvesting directly addresses the tragedy of the commons by regulating resource use, ensuring sustainability and preventing depletion of shared resources.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-5

What do we mean when we refer to "commons" in environmental science?

• shared values

• shared resources

• shared personalities

• shared classes

Answer explanation

In environmental science, "commons" refers to shared resources that are accessible to all members of a community, such as air, water, and forests. This concept emphasizes the importance of managing these resources collectively.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-4

Which of the following is NOT an example of a commons?

• air

• oceans

• private beach

• forests

Answer explanation

A commons refers to resources shared by a community, like air, oceans, and forests. A private beach, however, is owned by an individual or entity, making it not a commons.

Sustainability is

• the process of maintaining resources so they are not depleted or permanently damaged

• the ability to use resources faster than they are renewed

• they ability to save resources for years and years

• the process of using resources for one's own benefit without regard for others

Answer explanation

Sustainability refers to maintaining resources to prevent their depletion or permanent damage, ensuring they remain available for future generations. The correct choice accurately captures this essential principle.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-4

NGSS.MS-LS2-5

What is meant by overgrazing?

• When the cows eat too much and get sick

• When a section of land is used for an extended period of time without sufficient recovery periods

• When too much grass is planted

• When a section of land is not used for an extended period of time and becomes overgrown

Answer explanation

Overgrazing occurs when land is continuously used for grazing without allowing time for vegetation to recover, leading to soil degradation and loss of plant life. This is correctly described by the second answer choice.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-1

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

NGSS.MS-LS2-5

The tragedy of the commons can be prevented by

• establishing property rights

• establishing loose laws of enforcement

• establishing lack of management

• establishing more freedom of choice

Answer explanation

The tragedy of the commons occurs when individuals exploit shared resources. Establishing property rights assigns ownership, incentivizing responsible management and preventing overuse, thus effectively addressing the issue.

Tags

NGSS.HS-ETS1-3

NGSS.HS-LS2-7

As populations grow, the tragedy of the commons will become more of a problem?

• True

• False

Answer explanation

True. As populations increase, the demand for shared resources intensifies, leading to overuse and depletion, which exemplifies the tragedy of the commons. This issue becomes more pronounced with larger populations.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-4

NGSS.MS-LS2-1