Moral Economy at Work: Ethnographic Investigations in Eurasia

The concept of a moral economy has been explored and assessed in various disciplines, including anthropology. This volume provides a new perspective by examining how the relations between workers, employees, employers, firms, families, and households are intertwined with local notions of moralities. Moral values influence these relationships, often producing more consent than resistance or outrage.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2023
Publisher: Berghahn Books

The concept of a moral economy has been extensively studied and evaluated across various disciplines. In this volume, anthropological research offers a fresh perspective on this notion by highlighting the intricate interconnectedness of workers, employees, employers, firms, families, and households with local notions of morality. These moral values permeate various aspects of human relationships, influencing concepts such as individual autonomy, kinship obligations, and modes of expressing mutuality or creativity. Surprisingly, these moral values often generate greater consent than resistance or outrage, highlighting their underappreciated influence in shaping human interactions and outcomes.

The study of moral economies examines the complex relationships between individuals, groups, and institutions within societies. It explores how economic activities and practices are shaped by moral values, beliefs, and norms, and how these in turn influence social and economic outcomes. Moral economies can take various forms, including traditional economies, market economies, and hybrid economies, and they can operate at different scales, from local to global.

One of the key insights of moral economies is that economic transactions are not merely transactions between individuals or firms but are also embedded within broader social and cultural contexts. Economic activities are not neutral or value-free but are influenced by the moral values and beliefs of the people involved. For example, in traditional economies, the exchange of goods and services is often guided by principles of reciprocity, respect, and communalism, which prioritize the well-being of the community over individual gain.

In contrast, market economies are driven by the principles of competition, profit, and individual choice. While these principles can lead to economic growth and innovation, they can also create social inequalities and undermine social cohesion. For example, in market economies, the pursuit of profit can lead to the exploitation of workers, the degradation of the environment, and the concentration of wealth in the hands of a few.

Hybrid economies, which combine elements of both traditional and market economies, attempt to balance the benefits of individual choice and economic efficiency with the values of social justice and sustainability. For example, in hybrid economies, community-based enterprises and cooperatives can provide employment opportunities and economic benefits to local communities, while also promoting sustainable practices and ethical behavior.

Another important aspect of moral economies is the role of institutions in shaping economic behavior. Institutions, such as governments, corporations, and social organizations, play a critical role in establishing and enforcing moral standards and regulations. For example, governments can establish laws and policies that promote social welfare, environmental protection, and fair labor practices, while corporations can implement ethical codes of conduct and social responsibility programs.

However, the relationship between moral economies and institutions is not always straightforward. In some cases, institutions can reinforce existing inequalities and power structures, while in others, they can promote social change and justice. For example, in many developing countries, multinational corporations can exploit local resources and workers, while governments can fail to enforce labor laws and environmental regulations.

In conclusion, the study of moral economies provides a valuable lens for understanding the complex relationships between economic activities, social structures, and moral values. It highlights the importance of considering the moral dimensions of economic transactions and the role of institutions in shaping economic behavior. By recognizing the moral values and beliefs that underlie economic activities, we can develop more sustainable and equitable economic systems that prioritize the well-being of all individuals and communities.

ISBN-13: 9781805391166