I think everybody’s life has been affected by the pandemic. Personally I think the best that could come from it is a major reset to the way things are run.
I get that work is important for people, it can give people a lot in terms of people feeling useful, and that they have a role to play, and it also gives people money which they can exchange for things they need and want.
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I think we are at a pivotal point in human history, this isn’t just about returning to normal. I suspect normal has contributed to the problems we are facing, from homelessness, to mental health problems, to addictions, to pandemics and climate change, to the problems of refugees and asylum seekers. I suspect that the only worthwhile, long term solution is a global green new deal with a much greater emphasis on equality, nationally and globally, living in a sustainable way, using green energy, and not taking more than our fair share.
We hear a lot about the need for money but actually what we need is the stuff that money can buy. People need food and water, shelter and a role in life. Animals are pretty similar. I would like to see an economy run as though people matter, not just some people, all people.
This is not a new idea, it is the idea behind the charity Practical Action, which works in the developing world on locally-based, sustainable solutions. The idea as far as I know was developed by the economist who wrote Small is Beautiful, E. F. Schumacher.