By Miguel Pacheco
Ever since we climbed out of the trees, we humans have lived in closely knit, self-governing communities, deeply dependent on one another. These communities provided a sense of belonging, identity, and purpose. However, in the modern era, an increasing sense of alienation pervades our lives, creating a society where genuine happiness seems elusive for many.
This dramatic societal shift can be traced back to the rise of capitalism, which succeeded mercantilism and feudalism around 300 years ago. As we moved from our centuries-old communities towards cities, capitalism introduced a new metric for social worth: wealth. This new and innovative socioeconomic system abolished the dogmas of hereditary privilege, aristocracy, and slowly we even conquered the perceived divine right of the kings. We began to celebrate and envy the rich, valuing financial success over anything else. Money became the driving force of society, reducing all aspects of life to their exchange value. Consequently, we moved away from communal identities, becoming individuals defined by our work rather than our relationships.
Now, as we conform to a more solitary and disconnected lifestyle, our material comforts have improved, yet our inner selves often feel increasingly isolated. The artificial communities we create, whether online or offline, often fail to provide the deep sense of belonging that traditional communities once offered. The happiness and well-being that consumerism promised has also not materialised. Rates of depression and suicide have never been higher, and many depend on medication and stimulants to function.
As we navigate this alienated existence, we must reflect on what we have lost and what we can regain. While we cannot turn back time, we can strive to foster genuine connections, prioritise mental well-being, and redefine our metrics for social worth. By doing so, we may rediscover the sense of community that has been a fundamental part of human existence since the dawn of humanity.
But how can we do that?
Society needs to once again provide the means and opportunity for individuals to develop beyond the scope of their productivity in the marketplace. As a human group, we need to change what we value once again, and claim back our humanity. This will necessarily mean economic restructuring. Having a profit-oriented society will surely not cut it.
Community-Centric Economy
Economic decentralisation, where local communities manage resources and production is an approach that can help restore the sense of belonging and purpose that traditional communities provided, countering the alienation prevalent in modern society. By returning economic control to local hands, individuals can reconnect with their communities, fostering mutual support and cooperation.
Cooperative Enterprises
By encouraging cooperative businesses, we replace competitive enterprises with collaborative efforts. This shift fosters a spirit of cooperation over competition, aligning with the communal values we once cherished. Cooperative enterprises ensure that the benefits of economic activities are distributed more equitably, promoting social harmony and reducing the isolation caused by cutthroat competition.
Balanced Growth
Advocating for the balanced growth of all sectors of society. That means that technological and material advancements should not come at the expense of social and emotional well-being. By prioritising holistic development, focusing on issues such as community building and creative pursuits, and removing the profit motive from its pedestal, we can address the inner void many experience today. Economic policies would focus on enhancing the quality of life for everyone, not just the affluent, ensuring that progress benefits all layers of society.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10314672