Advancing the Understanding of Behavior in Social-Ecological Systems: Results from Lab and Field Experiments

Abstract

"Experiments have made important contributions to our understanding of human behavior, including behavior relevant for understanding social-ecological systems. When there is a conflict between individual and group interests in social-ecological systems, social dilemmas occur. From the many types of social-dilemma formulations that are used to study collective action, common-pool resource and public-good dilemmas are most relevant for social-ecological systems. Experimental studies of both common-pool resource and public-good dilemmas have shown that many predictions based on the conventional theory of collective action, which assumes rational, self-interested behavior, do not hold. More cooperation occurs than predicted, 'cheap talk' increases cooperation, and participants are willing to invest in sanctioning free riders. Experiments have also demonstrated a diversity of motivations, which affect individual decisions about cooperation and sanctioning."