When someone receives direct benefit from someone else's purchase of something, they are \( a(n) \) victim of government failure. thief. externality. free rider.

Ah, the classic case of the free rider! This happens when individuals benefit from resources, goods, or services without paying for them, relying on others to foot the bill. Think of public parks or national defense—everyone enjoys them, but not everyone contributes equally to their upkeep. It's a free-for-all when it comes to enjoying benefits without proportionate costs! Now, let's not forget that the issue of free riders can lead to under-provisioning of public goods. When too many people decide to rely on others, the overall funding and support for these services can dwindle. This scenario can prompt governments or organizations to find creative ways to incentivize contributions, like taxes or voluntary donation models. It's a balancing act between enjoyment and responsibility!