Overusing fish resources due to the lack of cooperation is an example of _____.

a. the tragedy of the commons

b. positive externality

c. cartel agreement between fishing companies

d. rules of origin

The correct answer is a. the tragedy of the commons.

The tragedy of the commons occurs when a common resource is used by people for their own benefit without any concern for others who also want to use it. Here, for example, every individual wants to catch fishes from the common fishing area leading to a problem for everyone. This problem occurs because everyone wants to maximize their benefits without caring about others.