The rational herdsman concludes that the only sensible course for him to pursue is to add another animal to his herd. And another; and another . . . But this is the conclusion reached by each and every rational herdsman sharing a commons. Therein is the tragedy. Each man is locked into a system that compels him to increase his herd without limit — in a world that is limited. Ruin is the destination toward which all men rush, each pursuing his own best interest in a society that believes in the freedom of the commons. Freedom in a commons brings ruin to all.
Garrett HardinThe social arrangements that produce responsibility are arrangements that create coercion, of some sort.
Garrett HardinIt takes five years for a willing person's mind to change. Have patience with yourself and others when treading in an area protected by a taboo.
Garrett HardinThe exquisite sight, sound, and smell of wilderness is many times more powerful if it is earned through physical achievement, if it comes at the end of a long and fatiguing trip for which vigorous good health is necessary. Practically speaking, this means that no one should be able to enter a wilderness by mechanical means.
Garrett HardinA finite world can support only a finite population; therefore, population growth must eventually equal zero.
Garrett Hardin