Step level and volunteers dilemma
Step-level dilemma refers to a situation where an individual faces a choice between taking small steps towards a desired outcome or taking a larger, riskier step in the hopes of achieving that outcome more quickly. The dilemma arises from the uncertainty and trade-offs involved in each approach.
On the one hand, taking small steps allows for a more cautious and gradual approach. It may involve lower risks and be less daunting, as the individual can evaluate the progress and adjust their strategy along the way. It also allows for a higher likelihood of success, as the smaller goals can be more easily achieved.
On the other hand, opting for a larger, riskier step can potentially lead to a faster achievement of the desired outcome. It may require a bolder and more decisive approach, where the individual takes on more significant challenges and commits more resources. However, it also carries a higher chance of failure, as the risks involved are greater.
Volunteer's dilemma is a concept from game theory that examines the tension between individual self-interest and collective well-being in voluntary cooperation. It occurs when individuals face a choice between contributing to a common good or benefitting from other's contributions without contributing themselves.
In this dilemma, each individual has the option to either contribute their time, effort, or resources towards a common goal or free-ride on the efforts of others. If everyone chooses to free-ride, the collective outcome suffers, as there is no cooperation or shared contribution towards the common good. However, if everyone decides to contribute, the collective outcome is maximized, and the common goal is more likely to be achieved.
The dilemma arises because, from an individual perspective, free-riding seems more advantageous. By not contributing, an individual can save their time and resources while still benefiting from the contributions of others. However, if everyone makes this self-interested choice, the overall outcome is suboptimal.
Resolving the volunteer's dilemma requires mechanisms or incentives that encourage individuals to contribute and discourage free-riding. This can be achieved through social norms, reputation systems, enforcement mechanisms, or incentives that align individual self-interest with collective well-being.