Thank you, Johan van de Gronden, for your contribution to this debate. I agree with you that Hardin provides valuable theoretical insights. It might indeed be necessary to reflect on some of these old and more recent theories.

I believe the WRR underestimates the value of theoretical insights to achieve the paradigm shift needed to overcome current crisis, as some contributors to this debate have also mentioned.

In my thesis 'Community Based Water Management; wishful thinking or a way out?' I made some initial steps in analysing theories. I analysed key criteria for viable management of the commons in two Malawian villages (publication available at www.createconsultancy.org). In this thesis a new paradigm is described: 'New Institutional Economics'. This paradigm provides insights on sustainable 'management of the commons'. Important contributors in shaping this paradigm are Douglass North and Elinor Ostrom.

Additionally, I agree with Janne Nijman who contributed to this online discussion. She suggested that 'smart' development aid is essential
(see http://www.thebrokeronline.eu/en/trackback/id/4296).

I believe Toon van Eijk (and various others) also made a valuable contribution to the discussion. He emphasises the need for personal change (http://www.thebrokeronline.eu/en/trackback/id/4511).

I wonder whether a new paradigm could be shaped by 'New Institutional Economics'. Or whether we might need to move beyond this paradigm, possibly integrating concepts as 'smart development' and 'personal change'.