One author argues that the stock market crisis of 2008, the economic downturn, and subsequent Occupy Wall Street movements were caused not only by a faulty economic system, but by our collective mindset. Charles Eisenstein argues not only that we should turn our mindsets to become more socially/economically/environmentally aware, but that the shift is inevitable in the long-term. Further, in arguing that we should “align money with the true expression of our gifts,” this author is suggesting that we should build an economy based on philanthropic principles.
Intriguingly, Eisenstein suggests the following to create a Gift Economy rather than a Monetary Economy:
- Our economy should focus more on giving gifts, not purchasing products.
- If you have more money than you need, gift it to help those in need.
- Our sense of community disappears when we focus on money as a barrier rather than as a way to help others.
- “Relocalization” (Emphasizing local economic institutions like credit unions or community-based foundations) and peer to peer financing (Such as Kickstarter or Kiva) can change how we circulate money.
Opportunities lay before us to change the world as a result of increased social outreach techniques and technological advances. Charles Eisenstein’s ideas are encapsulated in his new book, Sacred Economics, which you can read online by an appropriately voluntary payment process.
The Center for Arab American Philanthropy strengthens the impact of strategic Arab American giving through education, asset building and grantmaking, in order to improve lives and build vibrant communities. To learn more about our work, please visit our website.