I came across this news article today, and it seems like a classic commons dilemma.
Panera Bread opened a "pay as you can" donations-only location in St. Louis, Missouri.
From the article: "It all depends on whether customers will abide by the motto that hangs above the deli counter: 'Take
what you need, leave your fair share.'"
The restaurant is like a common pool - if everybody is reasonable, the pool of goods will replenish itself (the restaurant will continue to serve donation-only food). However if overused, the pool (the restaurant) will not last. Rationally, the best individual decision would be for people to not pay a dime - they get a meal, and it doesn't cost them anything. However, the individual's most economically beneficial decision will ultimately lead to the closing of the store.
The article finishes with this quote from a lady who has had a successful donations-only restaurant in SLC since 2003:"It somehow stays in balance," Cerrata said. "I think ultimately people are good. They want to contribute."
Anybody for a road trip to St. Louis?
Conrad Bassett-Bouchard
A07522420
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