Meaning: The quote "What is missing, I think, is this notion of the common good" by Susan George, a prominent activist and political scientist, reflects a deep concern about the absence of a shared understanding of the common good in contemporary society. This notion of the common good has been a central theme in political philosophy and ethics for centuries, and its absence has significant implications for social, political, and economic structures.

In essence, the common good refers to the collective well-being of society as a whole, rather than the interests of specific individuals or groups. It embodies the idea that there are certain fundamental values and goals that are beneficial for all members of a community, and that these should be prioritized and protected. The concept of the common good emphasizes the importance of solidarity, cooperation, and mutual respect in advancing the welfare of all people.

Throughout history, the notion of the common good has been central to various religious, philosophical, and political traditions. For example, in ancient Greek philosophy, thinkers like Plato and Aristotle discussed the importance of the common good as a guiding principle for the organization of society. In Christian theology, the idea of the common good is deeply rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ and the moral imperative to care for the marginalized and vulnerable. In modern political theory, philosophers such as John Rawls and Martha Nussbaum have grappled with the concept of the common good in the context of justice and human rights.

However, despite this rich intellectual tradition, Susan George's quote suggests that the notion of the common good has been undermined or neglected in contemporary discourse and decision-making. This observation raises important questions about the priorities and values that shape our social and political systems. In an era marked by increasing individualism, polarization, and inequality, the absence of a shared commitment to the common good can have profound consequences for public policy, governance, and social cohesion.

One area where the absence of the common good is particularly evident is in the realm of economic policy. The dominant neoliberal ideology, which prioritizes individual self-interest and market mechanisms, often overlooks the broader social impact of economic decision-making. This can lead to policies that exacerbate inequality, weaken social safety nets, and prioritize corporate profits over the well-being of communities. In this context, the absence of a robust understanding of the common good can result in a shortsighted and unsustainable approach to economic development.

Moreover, the erosion of the common good can also be observed in the realm of environmental stewardship. As global challenges such as climate change and resource depletion intensify, the need for collective action and shared responsibility has never been more pressing. However, the pursuit of short-term economic gain and geopolitical competition often takes precedence over the long-term well-being of the planet and future generations. Without a reinvigorated commitment to the common good, the imperative to protect the environment for the benefit of all can be easily sidelined.

In the realm of social justice and human rights, the absence of the common good can manifest in the form of systemic discrimination, marginalization, and exclusion. When policy decisions and societal attitudes are guided by narrow self-interest or the interests of powerful elites, vulnerable populations are often left behind. This perpetuates cycles of inequality and injustice, undermining the potential for a more equitable and inclusive society.

In response to the absence of the common good, advocates and activists like Susan George have called for a renewed emphasis on solidarity, empathy, and ethical decision-making. They argue that a robust conception of the common good is essential for addressing pressing global challenges and building a more just and sustainable world. By centering the common good in public discourse and policymaking, it becomes possible to cultivate a shared sense of purpose and responsibility that transcends individual interests.

In conclusion, Susan George's quote underscores the vital importance of the common good as a guiding principle for ethical and effective governance. By recognizing and addressing what is missing in our societal values and priorities, we can work towards a more equitable, compassionate, and sustainable future for all. Embracing the notion of the common good requires a collective effort to prioritize the well-being of the entire community, and it stands as a timeless ideal that can guide us in navigating the complex challenges of the modern world.