Concepts and Methods of Common Property Resource Management

There are two dominant conceptual models of common property resource management: a capitalist model and a socialist model. The capitalist model argues that resources that are held commonly are subject to degradation. Hence, privatization of public resources is the only viable solution to the problem. The socialist model explains that economic poverty caused by inequitable distribution of resources among rural agrarian population is the driving force of resource destruction. Therefore, collectivization or nationalization of public resources serves as an equitable strategy of resource management. A third model suggested by social scientists, particularly anthropologists, asserts the multiplicity of economic, historical, political, and social dynamics at play in resource degradation. These dynamics have disrupted the local control system which otherwise would serve as effective means of common property resource management. They suggest that the policy makers should recognize, support, and strengthen cultural system and socio-political institutions of local people rather than replacing them with other forms of management strategy, for traditional customs and usages practiced by local people have several positive effects in managing and sustaining common property resources and promoting socioeconomic development.