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On Productivity Holism.
- Source :
-
European Journal of Philosophy . Sep2022, Vol. 30 Issue 3, p1092-1109. 18p. - Publication Year :
- 2022
-
Abstract
- NPR runs a program about entrepreneurs called, "How I Built This." By contrast, the song "Solidarity Forever" says, "It is we who plowed the prairies; built the cities where they trade/Dug the mines and built the workshops, endless miles of railroad laid." In this article, I examine two ways to conceptualize the production of goods and services: individualistically or holistically. At issue is whose activity has significant social value. Following a thought from Elizabeth Anderson, I develop and defend a holist view of productivity. I argue that the central issue is normative: how is it best to regard the social phenomenon of extensive joint production and provision of goods and services? I begin by distinguishing different cases of joint productivity in order to focus on large scale activities. I then argue that the concept of marginal contribution does not provide a basis for viewing productivity individualistically. Overall, non‐normative arguments underdetermine the best way to regard our productive activities. I go on to present normative arguments in favor of regarding our joint productive activities holistically. I end by distinguishing four species of productivity holism and by noting issues for further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Subjects :
- *HOLISM
*EVOLUTIONARY theories
*SOCIAL values
Subjects
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 09668373
- Volume :
- 30
- Issue :
- 3
- Database :
- Academic Search Index
- Journal :
- European Journal of Philosophy
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 159609506
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.1111/ejop.12776