Free riding意思

"Free riding" is a term that can have different meanings depending on the context in which it is used. Here are a few common definitions:

  1. Economics and Game Theory: In economics and game theory, free riding refers to a situation where an individual takes advantage of a public good or a resource without contributing to its provision. This can lead to a situation where the good or resource may become under-provided or under-funded because those who benefit from it do not contribute to its maintenance or creation.

  2. Politics and Public Policy: In politics and public policy, free riding can refer to a country or a state that benefits from international agreements or collective actions without fulfilling its obligations. For example, a country may benefit from a military alliance without contributing its fair share to defense spending.

  3. Sustainability and Environmental Policy: In the context of sustainability and environmental policy, free riding can refer to a company or individual that does not take necessary steps to reduce their environmental impact because others are already doing so, or because the cost of doing so is borne by society as a whole.

  4. Cybersecurity: In cybersecurity, free riding can refer to a situation where an individual or organization relies on the efforts of others to protect against cyber threats without investing in their own security measures.

  5. Transport and Sharing Economy: In the context of transport and the sharing economy, free riding can refer to a passenger who rides in a vehicle without paying for the ride, typically by blending into a crowd of passengers or by hiding their presence in some way.

  6. Social Media and Online Communities: In social media and online communities, free riding can refer to users who benefit from the content created by others without contributing anything themselves.

In all these contexts, the concept of free riding highlights a situation where an individual or entity benefits from the actions or resources of others without contributing to the common good or effort.