The social dilemmas of climate change and antibiotic resistance: an analytic comparison and discussion of policy implications

Abstract Climate change and antimicrobial resistance are two of humanity’s most imminent problems. Reducing the use fossil fuels antibiotics is essential for managing threats, theory-based policies required to stimulate urgently needed behaviour change. This article analyses climate within context game theory. Previous literature has identified these problems as Commons tragedies, where inherent incentive structures encourage selfish overuse existing resources. While theoretical models provide a helpful conceptual basis, present analysis suggests discrepancies between some assumptions practical realities resistance. These include complex networks decision makers, non-binary choice contexts complicated by temporal spatial distance choices outcomes, different ethical implications resource overuse. Policy discussed, highlighting need global agreements coordinating local initiatives both dilemmas. However, target groups may be necessary address existence gate keepers (e.g., medical prescribers) in antibiotic use. Additionally, while certain types information policies) apply dilemmas, more nuanced considerations mean that economic punitive limited