Riane Eisler, a systems scientist, cultural historian, and attorney, has made significant contributions to our understanding of human societies and economies. Her groundbreaking work on partnership systems and caring economics offers a fresh perspective that aligns remarkably well with the principles of design economics. Let’s explore how Eisler’s ideas embody the three tenets of design economics.
Tenet 1: Acknowledging the Evolution of Human Cultural Systems
Eisler’s work is fundamentally rooted in the understanding that human cultural systems evolve and change over time. Her Cultural Transformation Theory, introduced in her seminal book “The Chalice and the Blade” (1987), provides a framework for understanding how societies oscillate between partnership and domination models throughout history.
Eisler argues that our current economic systems are based on a domination model that emerged thousands of years ago but is no longer suitable for our modern world. She proposes a shift towards a partnership model, which she sees as more adaptive to current social, environmental, and technological realities.
In her book “The Real Wealth of Nations” (2007), Eisler introduces the concept of “full-spectrum economics.” This approach acknowledges that as our societies evolve, our economic thinking must also evolve to encompass a broader range of human activities and values. She argues for the inclusion of the “caring economy” – the often invisible and undervalued work of caregiving and environmental stewardship – in our economic calculations and policies.
Eisler’s recognition of the need for economic systems to evolve in response to changing societal needs and global challenges aligns perfectly with the first tenet of design economics. Her work provides a historical context for understanding economic paradigms and offers a vision for how they can evolve to better serve humanity and the planet.
Tenet 2: Embracing Inclusive, Interdisciplinary Approaches
Eisler’s approach to economics is inherently interdisciplinary, drawing from a wide range of fields including anthropology, sociology, psychology, and systems theory. This aligns closely with the second tenet of design economics, which calls for inclusive, interdisciplinary approaches that account for dynamic systemic change.
Her partnership model of economics is a prime example of this interdisciplinary approach. It integrates insights from social sciences, neuroscience, and even child development studies to create a more holistic understanding of economic systems. Eisler argues that economic behaviors and systems are deeply influenced by early childhood experiences and cultural values, demonstrating the interconnectedness of economic, social, and psychological factors.
Eisler’s work on the caring economy is particularly inclusive, recognizing and valuing forms of work that have traditionally been excluded from economic consideration. By including caregiving, volunteer work, and household labor in her economic model, Eisler creates a more comprehensive and accurate picture of economic activity.
Furthermore, her Social Wealth Economic Indicators provide a practical application of this inclusive, interdisciplinary approach. These indicators measure both the status of human capacity development and care investment, going beyond traditional economic measures to include factors like education, health, and environmental quality.
Eisler’s systems-thinking approach also aligns with this tenet of design economics. She consistently emphasizes the interconnectedness of economic, social, and environmental systems, arguing for economic models that can account for these complex interactions and adapt to systemic changes.
Tenet 3: Promoting Economic Literacy
Eisler has been a tireless advocate for improving public understanding of economics, aligning with the third tenet of design economics. She believes that broadening our conception of economics is crucial for creating more equitable and sustainable societies.
Through her books, lectures, and the work of her Center for Partnership Studies, Eisler has sought to make economic concepts more accessible and relevant to the general public. She challenges people to rethink their assumptions about what constitutes economic activity and value, promoting a more inclusive and holistic economic literacy.
Eisler’s concept of “caring economics” is particularly effective in promoting economic literacy. By framing economics in terms of care – something everyone can relate to – she makes economic concepts more tangible and understandable. This approach helps people recognize the economic value of their daily activities, even those that don’t involve monetary transactions.
Her work also encourages critical thinking about economic indicators and policies. By questioning GDP as a measure of progress and proposing alternative indicators, Eisler prompts people to think more deeply about how we define and measure economic success.
Moreover, Eisler’s emphasis on the connection between economic systems and social values promotes a form of economic literacy that goes beyond mere financial understanding. She encourages people to consider how economic policies and practices reflect and shape societal values, fostering a more nuanced and socially conscious economic discourse.
Building Momentum for a New Economic Paradigm
Eisler’s ideas are gaining traction in various spheres, building momentum for a paradigm shift in economics. Her work has influenced policy discussions on issues ranging from early childhood education to environmental protection, demonstrating the practical applications of her partnership model.
The growing interest in alternative economic measures, such as the Genuine Progress Indicator and various well-being indices, reflects Eisler’s long-standing advocacy for more comprehensive economic indicators. Similarly, the increasing recognition of the economic value of care work, particularly highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic, aligns with her concept of the caring economy.
Eisler’s partnership model has also found resonance in the business world, influencing discussions about corporate culture, leadership styles, and stakeholder capitalism. Her ideas have been adopted by organizations seeking to create more equitable and collaborative work environments.
In conclusion, Riane Eisler’s work on partnership economics and caring economics exemplifies the principles of design economics. Her recognition of evolving cultural systems, her interdisciplinary approach, and her commitment to promoting a more inclusive economic literacy have significantly contributed to expanding our understanding of economics.
As we grapple with complex global challenges like climate change, inequality, and social upheaval, Eisler’s insights offer a valuable framework for reimagining our economic systems. Her vision of a partnership economy, which values care and cooperation alongside traditional economic metrics, provides a compelling direction for the evolution of economic thought and practice in the 21st century. In doing so, Eisler’s work not only aligns with the tenets of design economics but also helps chart a path towards more sustainable, equitable, and adaptive economic systems.
Prompt: Vinny Tafuro | Composed: Claude 3.5 Sonnet | Edited: Vinny Tafuro