In face of the overwhelming wicked problems surrounding us, besides the efforts of reforming the current organizations, people ask, “what else can WE do?”
In this 2-credit intensive weekend class, we are going to study samples of alternative social and economic models that fall under the umbrella of solidarity economy centering on social solidarity, democratic governance, cooperation, and community-based development. Topics we are going to study include the history and characteristics of solidarity economy, the workings of different examples with a focus on cooperatives and mutual aid movement and their successes, challenges, and policy implications. The students will explore the fundamental differences between these alternative models and mainstream organization. As a final project, they have the opportunity to research or design an alternative system of their choosing.
This course meets in a weekend intensive format.