commons dilemma

n. The commons dilemma, also known as the tragedy of the commons, refers to the conflict of serving the interests of the self or the interests of the common good. If every individual chooses to serve the interests of the self over those of the common good, the outcome will be detrimental to everyone. Therefore, the optimal solution to this dilemma is for everyone to sacrifice some individual interest for the sake of benefiting everyone.

- EWMA, CYC

► See also PRISONER'S DILEMMA