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Christy Shaver's avatar

This article resonates deeply with me as it highlights the possibility of turning adversity into opportunity through collective effort. The idea of workers reclaiming ownership of bankrupt businesses feels both empowering and practical. It’s inspiring to think that those who are most invested in a business’s success—its workers—could rebuild it into something equitable and sustainable, where their contributions are valued beyond a paycheck.

The editor’s introduction adds an important layer to this discussion, reminding us that while the cooperative model holds great promise, success hinges on developing practical strategies to overcome opposition from entrenched powers. The example of Russia, where the transition failed due to a lack of actionable plans to counter oligarchs and global corporations, serves as a cautionary tale. It reinforces the need for thoughtful, well-prepared pathways to ensure workers are not left vulnerable to external forces seeking to maintain control.

I find the emphasis on cooperation and shared responsibility particularly meaningful. It aligns with my belief that people are capable of incredible resilience and creativity when united by a common purpose. However, I also feel the weight of the challenges ahead, especially the resistance from deeply entrenched capitalist systems. The article’s call for bold, forceful action is both energizing and daunting, reminding me that meaningful change requires courage and persistence.

What strikes me most is the idea that cooperatives could inspire a shift in how we view work and ownership, creating not just jobs but communities of shared purpose. Coupled with the editor’s insights, I see even more clearly how essential it is to not only seize moments of opportunity but also to anticipate and address potential roadblocks with strategic foresight. It’s a hopeful vision of a future where businesses are not just about profit but about people and the planet. For me, this is a reminder that, even in difficult times, we have the power to shape a better, more inclusive world through collective effort—if we plan for success and learn from history.

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Joshua Kielas's avatar

I really appreciate all the great thought and wisdom put forward by this Substack. I also can't help but feel like an article with this title could not be complete without a section discussing a strategy for paving the way to economic democracy with legislation. I've never been completely comfortable with the assurance that the opportunity for transition is going to present itself in any meaningful way amidst the chaos of collapse. Russia falling to authoritarianism and oligarchy seems a prime example. To be successful, I believe this movement also needs to mount an effort to develop, propagate, and promote model legislation that supports a transition to cooperativism, and bolsters the commons. It is an often successful strategy used by corporations and special interest groups seeking to make changes. They develop new model laws, and then get like minded people and groups around the country to adapt them and put them forward in their areas. To me this seems like the most practical solution to help ensure the transition will occur as desired.

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