Article: “I Am Because We Are”: Introducing Ubuntu Philosophy

“I Am Because We Are”: Introducing Ubuntu Philosophy https://flip.it/5PG.K0

this philosophy has many Western similarities to communitarism and socialism. Moreover, it appears aligned with the norms of other indigenous cultures.

“‘…embodies a communal ethos that emphasizes shared responsibility, trust in each other, and interconnectedness among the community.'” And “‘…respecting what previous generations and the natural world have already built for you. The living individual that lives according to Ubuntu principles will acknowledge that many beings have shaped—and will continue to shape—the reality that one is born into.”‘

Compare the above to Senator Elizabeth Warren’s stance around the phrase “I built that” conversation about economic contribution and fair taxation.

In a speech she gave while campaigning for the U.S. Senate in 2011, Warren made an argument about wealth creation, emphasizing that no individual or business becomes successful in isolation. The phrase similar to “I built that” became emblematic of her argument that businesses benefit from government-provided infrastructure, education systems, and protection which should then be supported by their taxes.

Warren pointed out that while entrepreneurs work hard for their success, they do so with the help of resources that society provides. This includes tangible things like roads and utilities, and intangible ones such as the education of their workforce and the enforcement of the rule of law. This idea was to underscore her point that paying taxes is a way of giving back and supporting the system that facilitates success for everyone.

Her remarks were in the broader context of the debate over tax policy and economic inequality in the United States. Warren’s perspective challenges the view held by some that success is solely the result of individual effort and that taxation is an undue burden. Instead, she presented a viewpoint that considers success to be partly contingent on social investments, and thus those who benefit substantially from the system have a responsibility to contribute to its maintenance and growth.

This dialogue fed into the larger narrative of fairness in the economy, prompting discussions on whether the wealthy and corporations are paying their fair share of taxes. It brought to the public conversation questions about how wealth is generated and the role of government and community in individual success.

Senator Warren’s comments contributed to a fundamental debate on economic philosophy and public policy that resonates with ongoing discussions about capitalism, social responsibility, and the distribution of wealth. [So sez ChatGPT]

But what ChatGPT misses — or isn’t explicit — is the function of time and the intergenerational nature of society. Our infrastructure and community were built over decades and centuries. The Interstate highway system was started in the 1950s. New York City was established in the 17th century; Washington DC in 1789 (if memory serves)

I bring philosophical (political) foundations up because we critically need it to guide the debates and ultimate policy decisions to address our changing environment (climate change and disaster resilience) and technology ( … like ChatGPT…)