Coordination problems

Definition

Coordination problems occur when members of a group need to make joint decisions or align their actions but face challenges in doing so, leading to inefficiencies or failure to achieve a collective goal. These problems are prevalent in political science when analyzing how groups overcome obstacles to organize and implement collective actions.

Related terms

Collective Action Problem: A situation where individuals' personal interests conflict with the group's interest, making it difficult for the group to achieve a common goal.

Prisoner's Dilemma: A scenario in game theory where two individuals acting in their self-interest do not produce the optimal outcome for either party, often used to illustrate the challenges of cooperation.

Public Goods: Goods that are non-excludable and non-rivalrous, meaning no one can be prevented from using them and one person's use does not reduce availability for others, often leading to coordination problems in their provision