The Tragedy of the Commons in Aceh: An Anthropological Reflection on the Post-Tsunami Development of Aceh

Abstract

This article examines the post-tsunami development of Aceh from an anthropological perspective, focusing on the concept of the tragedy of the commons. The author argues that the development projects in Aceh have been driven by a logic of budget absorption, dendrophobia (fear of trees), and noise escalation, resulting in the degradation of various commons, such as land, sound, water, and cultural heritage. The author uses Garret Hardin's theory of the tragedy of the commons to analyze the collective action problems and the externalities that arise from the overexploitation and mismanagement of the commons. The author also provides empirical evidence from fieldwork and secondary sources to illustrate the negative impacts of the development on the environment, society, and culture of Aceh. The author concludes that the development of Aceh has been a tragedy for the commons and calls for a more sustainable, participatory, and culturally sensitive approach to development.