Simulating the “Tragedy of the Commons” and Learning with Goldfish

• In Event: TLC at APSA: Doing Global Politics: Simulating the Dynamics of International and Comparative Political Phenomena

Abstract

Few issues are as relevant to APSA’s convention theme of “populism and privilege” as the management of natural resources. The politics of resource scarcity are tied to a host of other themes, like inequality, conflict/insecurity, and environmental survival. This project introduces a simple classroom simulation on the “Tragedy of the Commons” that uses goldfish crackers, bowls, and utensils to bring to life dilemmas of fisheries management. Students learn about the challenges of conservation and the value-added of communication, collaboration, security regimes, and sustainability ethics to prevent collapse of natural resources. Also explored are common challenges for the simulation’s implementation, assessments of its effectiveness, and ideas for extension and adaptation in different educational environments.

Author

• Mark David Hamilton, Inter-American Defense College