What method does Hardin suggest as a solution to the Tragedy of the Commons?

The correct answer emphasizes the importance of utilizing top-down government approaches as proposed by Garrett Hardin in addressing the Tragedy of the Commons. Hardin argued that individual self-interest often leads to the over-exploitation of shared resources when there is no regulation or oversight. To mitigate this, he suggested that centralized control or regulation by governing authorities is necessary to manage these common resources sustainably. This top-down approach can impose limits on resource use, which helps prevent depletion and ensures that the interests of the larger community are prioritized over individual gains.

In contrast, options like promoting free market competition and encouraging individual zero-sum games do not adequately consider the collaborative and regulatory measures needed to protect common resources. Similarly, community-based management strategies can be beneficial but often require the backing of a strong regulatory framework to be effective in a wider context. Hardin's argument is that without some form of authoritative intervention, the tendency towards overconsumption in commons scenarios will likely continue unabated.