Concept in Definition ABC

Each individual tries to satisfy his needs and those of his loved ones. However, when living in society it is inevitable to ask the question of the welfare of the community or the common good.

An ethical principle

The principle of the common good has an ethical dimension. So instead of think in the individual and concrete human being, it is about thinking about the interest of society as a whole. In other words, something can be beneficial and valid for me, but detrimental to a community. Consequently, the ethical purpose of this idea is to establish what is good for the majority and not for the few.

The general welfare of citizens

The concept of the common good and that of the general interest are equivalent and both are used synonymously. For this idea to make sense, a state must articulate a legal framework and principles that allow the dignity of each of the people who are part of society.

Examples from everyday life in which an idea of ​​the common good is imposed

- Cleaning and maintenance of public spaces.

- The campaigns of prevention to promote health (for example, vaccines for the elderly or campaigns against the consumption of alcohol, tobacco or any addictive substance).

- Planting trees to improve quality of life of the citizen.

- Changes in urban design to promote universal accessibility.

- Educational projects where cooperation and mutual help are encouraged.

From an economic perspective

The capitalist system is based on two general principles: free competence and the profit motive. Faced with this model, some economists propose an alternative vision based on sustainability, collective projects and a fairer distribution of wealth. This alternative model is inspired by the principle of the common good.

To make this alternative idea concrete in economic reality, it is necessary to rethink some questions. In this sense, it is necessary to abandon purely monetary criteria and emphasize everything that benefits society as a whole.

In other words, concepts such as GDP say nothing about other relevant issues related to collective well-being, such as peace, the quality of employment, the equality of opportunities, the participation citizenship, the distribution of wealth or respect for environment.

In this paradigm conceived for the welfare of the majority companies that work for the benefit of all would obtain a series of advantages (for example, less taxes or credits with a reduced interest) and companies that ignore the general interest would be penalized.

Photos: Fotolia - Antoshkaforever / Robert Kneschke

Common Good Topics