7.1.2 Common Humanity

Human Nature and Social Context

Flexibility and Malleability

• Socialists believe that human nature is not fixed at birth but is instead shaped by the environment and experiences of life. This means that people are not inherently self-sufficient individuals; rather, they are deeply influenced by the society in which they live. This view supports the idea that humans are naturally inclined to cooperate and work together for the common good. Inseparability from Society

• According to socialist thought, individuals cannot be understood in isolation from society.

• Human beings are inherently social creatures, and their identities, values, and behaviours are shaped by their interactions within their community. True freedom, in the socialist view, comes from being part of a community that supports and nurtures each individual, rather than from isolated self-interest.

Overcoming Barriers to Common Humanity

Breaking Down Divisions

• Socialists acknowledge that there are barriers, such as religion, ethnicity, and class, that can divide people and prevent them from recognising their common humanity.

• However, they believe these barriers can and should be overcome through collective action and social reform. By breaking down these divisions, society can foster greater solidarity and cooperation among its members. Potential for Change

• The belief in common humanity also underpins the socialist conviction that human nature can change and improve. Socialists argue that in a different economic system—one that prioritises collective well-being over individual profit—people would behave differently, becoming more cooperative, fraternal, and community-oriented.

The Role of Common Humanity in Socialist Goals

Collective Responsibility and Solidarity

Fraternity and Shared Goals

• Socialists emphasise that because people share common experiences and goals, they also share a sense of fraternity—brotherhood and mutual support. This sense of fraternity is crucial for building a society where collective goals are prioritised over individual self-interest, leading to a more just and equitable society.

The Role of the State

Collective Welfare

• Through legislation, social programs, and public services, the state can promote inclusivity and social cohesion, ensuring that all members of society are treated equally and have equal opportunities to succeed. Democratic Control and Participation

• Socialist views on common humanity also influence ideas about how the state should be governed. Socialists advocate for democratic control of the state, where decisions are made collectively, reflecting the will and needs of the entire community. This democratic approach ensures that the state remains accountable to the people and that its actions align with the common good.

The Role of the Economy

Collective Ownership

• The economy, from a socialist perspective, should be structured around collective ownership of the means of production. This means that key industries, resources, and services should be owned and managed by the community or the state on behalf of the people, rather than by private individuals or corporations. This collective ownership ensures that the economy serves the interests of all, rather than the profit motives of a few. Redistribution of Wealth

• The principle of common humanity underlies the socialist emphasis on the redistribution of wealth. Socialists argue that wealth should be distributed more equally across society to ensure that everyone has the resources they need to live a dignified life. This redistribution is seen as a way to address economic inequalities and promote social justice. Planning and Cooperation

• Socialist economies are often characterised by economic planning, where the state plays a central role in coordinating production and distribution to meet the needs of the population. This contrasts with the market-driven approach of capitalism, where individual competition dictates economic outcomes. Socialists believe that economic planning, guided by the principles of common humanity, can lead to more efficient and equitable outcomes, as resources are allocated based on collective needs rather than market demands. Fraternity in Economic Relations

• The concept of common humanity fosters a sense of fraternity in economic relations, where cooperation and mutual support are prioritised over competition. This approach encourages collaborative efforts, such as cooperatives and worker-owned businesses, where economic decisions are made democratically and profits are shared among all members, reflecting the collective effort that went into creating them.