An Exploration of Elinor Ostrom’s Theory of Self-Governance

Abstract

The theory of self-governance is a fundamental theory of collective action based on numerous empirical case studies by Elinor Ostrom, a contemporary exponent of the public choice school and public economics. Ostrom’s idea of autonomous governance is systematically and fully articulated in her book Governing the Commons: the Evolution of Institutions for Collective Action , published in 1990. It guides the development and use of public resources by tapping into the subjectivity of individual autonomy. The purpose of this paper is to explore the meaning and significance of the theory of self-governance through reading Governing the Commons: the Evolution of Institutions for Collective Action .