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The common good is the notion of shared collective…

“The common good is the notion of shared collective responsibility and reciprocity. It's that that we've lost.” quote by Joan Wallach Scott
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“The common good is the notion of shared collective responsibility and reciprocity. It's that that we've lost.”

Joan Wallach Scott

About This Quote

Source Book: Gender and the Politics of History, 1999

It highlights that societies have lost the sense of mutual responsibility and exchange that sustains communal wellbeing.

In simple terms: We no longer share responsibility.

Key Takeaway

Rebuild shared responsibility.

Themes

community responsibility reciprocity social cohesion

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical social

When to use this quote

  • neighbourhood projects
  • team workplaces
  • public policy
  • volunteer initiatives

Key Concepts

collective ethics social contract civic duty

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we encourage reciprocity in modern institutions?
  • What structures support the common good?
A Different Perspective

People may prioritize individual gain over communal care.

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