USAID/ENGAGE

How do we work together for the public interest when we have our own individual interests?

How do we work together for the public interest when we have our own individual interests? A classical “collective action” problem (according to economist, Mancur Olson) exists when individuals would be better off cooperating for the public good, but are instead led astray by their own self-interests. To solve this market problem, we need to create an environment in which individuals are motivated to transcend personal self-interests… that is what we are trying to do!

In this issue of our newsletter, we partially explore collective action problems. What kind of ideology inspires the majority? How many citizens are ready to stand up for their rights and the public good when they face corruption? How do we organize a national referendum to keep democracy functioning? You will have some answers after you read through our newsletter!