In simple terms, this statement suggests that social structures designed to ensure people take responsibility often exert some form of pressure or constraint on individuals. The idea here is that when societies establish norms and systems meant to make people accountable for their actions, these same setups can end up imposing a degree of force or compulsion.
On a deeper level, the quote delves into the complexities of human behavior within societal frameworks. It implies that while responsibility is generally seen as a positive trait, the mechanisms used to foster it might not always be benign. The coercion mentioned could manifest in various ways, such as legal penalties for non-compliance, social ostracism, or even internal psychological pressures. This raises questions about whether the intended outcomes of societal measures are worth the costs they impose on individual freedoms and autonomy.
Garrett Hardin was an American ecologist and philosopher known for his work on environmental ethics and population control. His quote reflects a broader theme in his writings: the intricate relationship between human behavior, social structures, and ethical dilemmas. Hardin often explored how collective action problems arise from individuals acting in their self-interest, leading to unintended negative consequences for society at large.
