In the midst of the massive web of globalisation and international trade, the health of our local economies is often overshadowed. Current practices allow vast multinational corporations to dictate the economic prospects of countless local communities, with repercussions that resonate at a national scale.
The Vision of a New Economy
In response, a visionary ideal is taking root — the green economy. This isn’t about just being environmentally conscious, though that's a significant part of it. It's about recalibrating our economic engines to prioritize local production catering to local needs. When local production falls short, the next step should be to look outward but only as far as necessary. From neighboring communities to the nearest state or country, sourcing would be a series of concentric circles, only reaching out to the global level when absolutely necessary.
Such an approach does more than just support local enterprises. It nurtures self-reliance, both at the micro (local) and macro (national) scales.
Emphasizing the Local
The rallying cries for this movement can be found in age-old adages: “Think global, Act local” and the more recent “Start In My Backyard – SIMBY”. These phrases emphasize a philosophy of recognizing the larger global context while centering actionable efforts at the grassroots, community level. The goal? Sustainable community economic development.
Community economic development (CED) is the heart of this new economic vision. It goes beyond pure economics, integrating socio-cultural aspects. When a community focuses on CED, it isn't just about businesses flourishing. It's about making the entire community more inclusive, creative, and holistic. From enhancing skill sets and education to ensuring health and housing, CED fosters a community where all aspects are interwoven, creating a vibrant tapestry of sustainable growth.
Socioeconomic Democracy: A Conceptual Blueprint
Robley George's “Socioeconomic Democracy: An Advanced Socioeconomic System” further expands on this concept. In his vision of a socioeconomic democracy, there's a dual emphasis. On one hand, there's a guaranteed personal income for all, ensuring that no one falls below a certain economic threshold. On the other, there's a cap on personal wealth, preventing disproportionate accumulation in the hands of a few.
By setting these bounds democratically, society can create a balanced, inclusive system where prosperity is shared, and economic disparities are minimized.
In Conclusion
The slow movement and the emphasis on strengthening local economies is not just an economic shift; it's a philosophical one. It's about communities reclaiming control over their destinies, ensuring that their residents don't just survive but thrive. While the path might be challenging, the destination — a world where every community is sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous — is well worth the journey.