Empirical investigation of the problem of free riding in the context of public goods: the case of northeastern Turkey

Purpose This study investigates the factors influencing free riding behavior, as well as cooperation and voluntary contribution decisions, in the context of public goods. This study aims to contribute to sustainable resource management debates by offering empirical insights into fostering voluntary cooperation and emphasizing the importance of individual and collective action in overcoming public goods challenges. Design/methodology/approach This study examines the free rider problem in the context of public goods, using the blood donation system in northeastern Turkey as a case study. The analysis consists of two phases. Binary logistic models were used to examine the probability of individuals being free riders and multinomial logistic regression models were used to explain the reasons for being free riders. Findings The findings reveal that free rider behavior is influenced by factors such as income level, gender, community trust and participation in collective action. Individuals with higher incomes and women are more likely to engage in free-rider behavior. Community trust emerged as a key determinant, with higher levels of trust reducing the likelihood of free riding. Additionally, factors such as incentives or coercion, participation in collective action, willingness to donate organs posthumously, confidence in obtaining blood if needed and prior blood donation experience help explain free rider behavior. Originality/value This study addresses a significant gap in the literature by integrating socioeconomic and demographic, psychological and behavioral factors to analyze free riding behavior, whereas traditional models often offer a one-dimensional perspective.