The many varieties of Commons we've been describing in the EDFix calls have a wide range of governance mechanisms, from Linus Torvalds' benevolent dictatorship over Linux to emissions trading markets and simple arrangements among neighbors about when to pasture their cattle or sheep. Some functional mechanisms can be very elaborate, like the water-temple rituals in Bali.
One useful model for thinking about goods in the Commons is the four-square matrix at the bottom of this page in Wikipedia, which maps excludability against rivalry, dividing the world into four categories of goods: private goods, common pool resources, public goods and club goods. (There'll be a quiz on the call.)
Charlotte Hess and Jesse Ribot have been deepening our common understanding of this territory. They will join us on Monday, January 25, 2010, for EDFix Call #5, as part of our quest to define the "Sustainability Commons." Join us on the call at noon ET (9am PT) at:
- Phone number: +1 (213) 289-0500
- Code: 267-6815
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