Abstract
‘Public goods problems’ arise when the effort of several self-interested individuals is needed to accomplish a task. In this paper, we examine whether or not free riders exist in political activities of a civil group and a related local party. Through an experimental method supposing an election campaign, we test how varying levels of benefits from public goods, selective incentives, and costs influence cooperative behavior. The results show that a few free riders do emerge under particular conditions. We also suggest that levels of political interest slightly distinguish free riders from simple non-cooperators, and that cognition of costs distinguishes free riders from cooperators. The study indicates that the groups are supported by their devoted members, but at the same time know they constantly need new members' participation to maintain themselves. Finally, we find the need for further study of the ‘members’ turnover cycle' and the resolution of methodological problems.
