Secret #5: Community Wealth
Hiding in plain sight ...
Secret #1: Humans are a Cooperative Species
Secret #2: Self-Importance is the Enemy of Kindness
Secret #3: We are a Part of Nature
Secret #4: We Can End Capitalism, and Build a Better Economy
Secret 5: Community Wealth!
Secret #5 is hiding in plain sight. In places where there’s no decent library, no regular bus service, no bike lanes, no joyful gathering spaces, and where people are not meeting to find solutions to local problems, community wealth can be weak.
In places where there’s always so much going on, on the other hand, where nature is protected, where there’s a club for every interest, where people know their neighbours, and where there is a committed effort to tackle local problems, community wealth is strong!
Community wealth is far more enduring and rewarding than private wealth. Personal wealth brings private comforts and status while others starve, or have to work three jobs to stay out of debt. Community wealth brings public benefits of every kind, from libraries and sports clubs to affordable housing and car-free streets. It also brings community-based economic development, community investment, and the community ownership of essential land, property, and much-loved businesses and pubs that would otherwise close.
But enough of words. I gave a talk on Community Wealth at the Ecovillage Findhorn recently, which is now available on YouTube. It is 55’, but I believe you will enjoy it. You can watch it here: