Rational Behavior in Groups: The Free-Riding Tendency

Authors
Albanese, Robert Van Fleet, David D.
Citation
Albanese, Robert et D. Van Fleet, David, Rational Behavior in Groups: The Free-Riding Tendency, Academy of Management review , 10(2), 1985, pp. 244-255
Journal title
Academy of Management review → ACNP
ISSN journal
03637425
Volume
10
Issue
2
Year of publication
1985
Pages
244 - 255
Database
ACNP
SICI code
Abstract
The individual actor in a group and his or her assessment of the expected net benefits of contributing to the group's common interest compared to the benefits of free riding is the central concern of free-rider theory.Free-rider theory and research designed to test parts of the theory are reviewed.Three findings of value to managers are offered: (1) a free-riding tendency operates in groups, (2) free riding and group size are related, and (3) managers can use various strategies to counter free riding.