The term has its origins in the sharing of grazing land in a given community, called "the commons", in Britain. An individual farmer could increase his or her profits by using more of the commons than others. The other farmers would then follow suite, leading to the overexploitation and destruction of that land.
In its modern usage, the phrase is used as a metaphor to the above, referring to the exploitation of a common resource. In game theory it is used as an example of how, in a given situation, every individual can choose to do what is best for their own interests and still produce the worst sum result for the whole. See also: prisoner's dilemna.
The most common and effective way to negotiate this problem is private ownership. Another way is heavy regulation and the imposition of sanctions on violators.
In its modern usage, the phrase is used as a metaphor to the above, referring to the exploitation of a common resource. In game theory it is used as an example of how, in a given situation, every individual can choose to do what is best for their own interests and still produce the worst sum result for the whole. See also: prisoner's dilemna.
The most common and effective way to negotiate this problem is private ownership. Another way is heavy regulation and the imposition of sanctions on violators.
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commonology is the study of common sense.
by Stacy McLovin September 3, 2009
Get the commonology mug.A person who is prevalent, and often found in the public doing stupid, moronic and mindless acts.
Also can be associated with loitering and annoying pests commonly found in groups at shopping malls, libraries and schools.
Basically another word for Imbecile.
Also can be associated with loitering and annoying pests commonly found in groups at shopping malls, libraries and schools.
Basically another word for Imbecile.
He snuck out at night, like a Common Arsehole.
John: "Look at all these common arseholes over here."
Vlad: "Piss off you common arsehole."
John: "Look at all these common arseholes over here."
Vlad: "Piss off you common arsehole."
by 17 inch dildo May 5, 2016
Get the Common Arsehole mug.A response to someone who commonly tries to sound clever and funny but is uncreative and dense.
Also, a response to someone in sports who usually has poor takes and is wrong more times than not (Skip Bayless, Mike Francesa, etc)
Also, a response to someone in sports who usually has poor takes and is wrong more times than not (Skip Bayless, Mike Francesa, etc)
Mike Francesa - Tua is the next Steve Young
Skip Bayless - The Cowboys are Super Bowl favorites
Common L
Skip Bayless - The Cowboys are Super Bowl favorites
Common L
by MyWhiteAzz January 5, 2021
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A love of the universe
A love of the universe
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