What describes free riders in the context of interest groups?

The concept of free riders refers to individuals who benefit from the efforts and resources provided by an interest group without contributing anything in return. This phenomenon occurs because such individuals are able to enjoy the advantages garnered by the group, such as advocacy achievements or public goods, without incurring the costs associated with involvement or membership.

In the context of interest groups, free riding poses a challenge, as it can lead to an underfunding of the group or decreased motivation among active members, who may feel their efforts are being taken advantage of. Understanding this concept is crucial in studying how interest groups function and the potential pitfalls they face in organizing and mobilizing support for their causes.