DYNAMIC MODELING TOWARDS A SOCIETY OF SOLIDARITY

Abstract

Abstract: This article contains some considerations on models which shall support a better understanding of the transition process to a society of solidarity. The possible structure of a dynamic model is discussed by presenting different modules which might be useful as building blocks of a comprehensive model of the society. In this connection, different measures for accelerating the process to a society of solidarity are discussed. After defining the aims of a society of solidarity the following modules are presented: population model with educational model, structural model of time provided, extended input-output model including traditional and private production activities, linkages with economic-environmental models, income policy measures, transition model to labor values, and structural model of time directly or indirectly received by the population.Key words: Solidarity; dynamic modeling, extended input-output models; population and educational model; time provided and received environmental impacts; income policy and labor valuationIntroductionAiming at a society of solidarity, its main manifestations need to be spelled out. Implementing the principle of solidarity would mean in practice:* Solidarity between the recipients of income. Differences of net income should only reflect qualification requirements (educational achievement and experience) and risks associated with an occupation, such as impacts on physical and mental health.* Solidarity on the paid labor market. The disposable amount of paid labor should be shared among employable persons. This requirement implies that the average hours of paid work per person have to be substantially reduced and that all persons able to work should get free access to the necessary basic and advanced education.* Solidarity between men and women. Men and women should equitably share paid and unpaid work. In most societies, this aim implies that women's participation in the market for paid labor increases whereas that of men decreases. Concurrently, men would have to considerably notch up their share of hours spent on domestic tasks and caring for children, the ill, and the elderly. Of course, the principle of equal pay for equal work has to apply.* Solidarity between the generations. Children and elderly people should be supported by the middle-aged employed persons. Furthermore, to the extent feasible, young people should support the elderly just as the latter might take care of children and adolescents. Above and beyond fostering solidarity among current generations, caring for future generations requires us to pass on a sustainable society and (life-supporting) environment.* Solidarity between rich and poor countries. The above principles also apply beyond national borders and imply working towards fairly sharing economic, ecological, and social space and requisite resources among current generations both at the global and local level. Rich countries should support sustainable development of poor countries and should not continue to misuse them as a source of cheap labor and low-priced natural resources. Resources within poor countries need to be deployed with the aim of building solidary and resilient societies.* Solidarity between human beings and the natural environment. Instead of exploiting and destroying the natural environment, human beings should exercise stewardship for nature in all its facets by respecting and sustaining it and restoring it if damage has been inflicted.A solidary society can only evolve on the basis of viable and interconnected social units. It is not enough to call for social responsibility and feelings like empathy or compassion without creating concrete social networks for learning and practicing them. This exercise is only possible between people who know and trust each other through interacting in relatively small and manageable units. Therefore, the principle of subsidiarity seems to be an indispensable precondition for a society of solidarity. …