Contents
Overview
The concept of Sacred Economics was first introduced by Charles Eisenstein in his 2011 book of the same name. Eisenstein, an American public speaker, author, and activist, drew inspiration from various sources, including Eastern philosophy, indigenous spiritual teachings, and the ecology movement. He was influenced by the work of Ecological Economist and Joel Mokyr, who have also explored the intersection of economics and the environment. The idea of Sacred Economics is rooted in the belief that the current economic system is based on a 'story of separation' that perpetuates inequality, environmental degradation, and social injustice. Eisenstein argues that a new narrative, one that emphasizes interdependence and the interconnectedness of all living beings, is necessary to create a more just and sustainable world.
💸 How It Works
At its core, Sacred Economics is about redefining the way we think about money, work, and resources. It proposes a shift from a scarcity-based economy to one that is based on abundance and generosity. This can be achieved through the implementation of gift economies, where goods and services are shared without expectation of payment or reciprocity. Local currencies, such as the Brisbane Dollar and the Ithaca Hour, can also help to promote local economic development and community resilience. Additionally, economic degrowth, which involves reducing consumption and production to sustainable levels, can help to mitigate the environmental impacts of economic activity. As Tim Jackson has argued, degrowth can be a necessary step towards creating a more sustainable and equitable economy.
🌈 Cultural Impact
The cultural impact of Sacred Economics has been significant, with many individuals and communities around the world embracing its principles and practices. The concept has inspired a range of initiatives, from eco-villages and permaculture projects to local currency systems and cooperative businesses. For example, the Twin Oaks community in Virginia, USA, has been operating a successful gift economy for over 50 years, demonstrating the viability of alternative economic models. Similarly, the Zapatista Cooperatives in Mexico have shown how cooperative economics can be used to promote social justice and community development. As Rebecca Solnit has noted, these types of initiatives can help to create a more just and equitable society by promoting cooperation and mutual aid.
🔮 Legacy & Future
The legacy and future of Sacred Economics are closely tied to the broader movement towards a more conscious and sustainable economy. As people become increasingly aware of the limitations and injustices of the current economic system, they are seeking alternative approaches that prioritize human well-being and the planet. Sacred Economics offers a powerful framework for creating a more compassionate and thriving world, and its principles and practices are being adopted by individuals, communities, and organizations around the world. However, as Naomi Klein has argued, the transition to a more sustainable and equitable economy will require significant changes in our economic and political systems, and will likely involve significant challenges and conflicts.
Key Facts
- Year
- 2011
- Origin
- USA
- Category
- conscious-capitalism
- Type
- concept
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main idea behind Sacred Economics?
Sacred Economics is a concept that seeks to transform the current economic system into one that is more equitable, sustainable, and aligned with human values. It emphasizes the importance of gift economies, local currencies, and economic degrowth. As David Korten has argued, this approach can help to create a more just and sustainable economy by prioritizing human well-being and the planet.
How does Sacred Economics differ from traditional economics?
Sacred Economics differs from traditional economics in its emphasis on abundance and generosity, rather than scarcity and competition. It also prioritizes human well-being and the planet, rather than solely focusing on economic growth and profit. As J.K. Galbraith noted, this approach can help to create a more equitable and sustainable economy by recognizing the importance of social and environmental factors.
What are some examples of Sacred Economics in practice?
Examples of Sacred Economics in practice include gift economies, such as the one operated by the Twin Oaks community in Virginia, USA, and local currency systems, such as the Brisbane Dollar in Australia. Additionally, eco-villages and permaculture projects, such as the Zapatista Cooperatives in Mexico, demonstrate the viability of alternative economic models that prioritize human well-being and the planet.
How can I get involved in the Sacred Economics movement?
You can get involved in the Sacred Economics movement by learning more about the concept and its principles, and by exploring ways to apply them in your own life and community. This might involve participating in a local gift economy, using a local currency, or supporting organizations that prioritize human well-being and the planet. As Paul Hawken has argued, individual actions can collectively contribute to significant positive change when they are part of a larger movement towards a more sustainable and equitable economy.
What are some of the challenges and limitations of implementing Sacred Economics?
Some of the challenges and limitations of implementing Sacred Economics include the need for significant changes in our economic and political systems, as well as the potential for resistance from those who benefit from the current system. Additionally, there may be challenges in scaling up alternative economic models to meet the needs of larger populations. However, as Gar Alperovitz has noted, these challenges can also be opportunities for innovation and creativity in creating a more just and sustainable economy.