Accepted Quote by Elinor Ostrom
“What is missing from the policy analyst's tool kit -- and from the set of accepted, well-developed theories of human organization -- is an adequately specified theory of collective action whereby a group of principals can organize themselves voluntarily to retain the residuals of their own efforts.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Governing the Commons, 1990
Policy lacks a clear theory for how groups can voluntarily manage and keep benefits of collective work.
In simple terms: Missing theory for collective self‑organization.
Develop collective‑action frameworks.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- community projects
- co‑ops
- public resource management
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What incentives foster voluntary cooperation?
- How can theory translate to practice?
Complex groups may resist voluntary organization.