Economy for the Good of All? Paths to Responsibility and Participation

Money makes the world go round! This is a well-known saying, but the economy is more than just money and material resources. The economy is a complex system of social, ecological and ethical relationships that goes beyond financial figures. Social and fair economic activity therefore encompasses various aspects such as meeting basic needs, appropriate remuneration, equal starting opportunities for all and a fair distribution of burdens and opportunities across generations. Against this background, the seminar poses the fundamental question: How can an economic order be shaped that serves the well-being of all people?

The seminar opens with a social science analysis that presents market theories and economic structures and embeds them in their social contexts. Questions of distributive justice, participation and education as well as the role of the state in interaction with the market and civil society will be addressed. The question of alternative models, which are discussed using the example of the economy for the common good, comes into focus. The second part examines which concepts have been developed from business administration for a fairer economy, including corporate social responsibility (CSR), sustainable, ecological and social management and social entrepreneurship. The third part of the seminar is dedicated to practice: how can shareholder and stakeholder interests as well as social and ecological concerns be reconciled in such a way that economic success is combined with added value for all?

The starting point of the seminar is an ethical analysis that takes into account key texts on the topic, including the encyclical Laudato Si' (2015). The aim is to develop criteria and perspectives for action for a just and sustainable economy that respects human dignity and combines social and ecological responsibility.

The seminar will take place from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on each day of the event.