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2. The Problem of Scale in Human/Environment Relationships

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  • Oran R. Young

Abstract

This essay seeks to initiate a discussion of the problem of scale among social scientists. Long familiar to natural scientists, the problem of scale centers on the transferability of propositions from one level to another in the dimensions of space and time. As a means of pursuing this goal, the essay examines similarities and differences between studies of micro-level institutions (common-pool resource [CPR] arrangements) and macro-level institutions (international resource regimes) governing human/environment relations. The conclusions are mixed. Some concerns (for example, the importance of transparency) loom large at both the micro level and the macro level. But others (for instance, the role of culture in connection with CPRs and the centrality of domestic implementation in connection with international resource regimes) are relevant primarily to one or the other level of analysis.

Suggested Citation

  • Oran R. Young, 1994. "2. The Problem of Scale in Human/Environment Relationships," Journal of Theoretical Politics, , vol. 6(4), pages 429-447, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:jothpo:v:6:y:1994:i:4:p:429-447
    DOI: 10.1177/0951692894006004002
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Young, Oran R., 1989. "The politics of international regime formation: managing natural resources and the environment," International Organization, Cambridge University Press, vol. 43(3), pages 349-375, July.
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    5. H. Scott Gordon, 1954. "The Economic Theory of a Common-Property Resource: The Fishery," Palgrave Macmillan Books, in: Chennat Gopalakrishnan (ed.), Classic Papers in Natural Resource Economics, chapter 9, pages 178-203, Palgrave Macmillan.
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    7. Haggard, Stephan & Simmons, Beth A., 1987. "Theories of international regimes," International Organization, Cambridge University Press, vol. 41(3), pages 491-517, July.
    8. Eggertsson,Thrainn, 1990. "Economic Behavior and Institutions," Cambridge Books, Cambridge University Press, number 9780521348911.
    9. Anthony Scott, 1955. "The Fishery: The Objectives of Sole Ownership," Journal of Political Economy, University of Chicago Press, vol. 63, pages 116-116.
    10. H. Scott Gordon, 1954. "The Economic Theory of a Common-Property Resource: The Fishery," Journal of Political Economy, University of Chicago Press, vol. 62, pages 124-124.
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    Cited by:

    1. Gary D. Libecap, 2014. "Addressing Global Environmental Externalities: Transaction Costs Considerations," Journal of Economic Literature, American Economic Association, vol. 52(2), pages 424-479, June.

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