For Class Discussion

This were questions posed to me by a student. I include my answer, but let's also discuss this in class:

Questions:

In terms of participating in economic arenas: what would be a specific example of participating in a unmeaningful way? and an example how can you participate without significant community benefit? and when we talk about well-being are we look from and individual perspective or a group perspective.

Kimo's Response:

Good question! I think only you can decide for yourself what is "un-meaningful".

In terms of the conversation in class, we hedged on the idea that "meaningful" systems that contribute to well being stem from the idea of community contribution. There is participation to community well being and, when needed, we can depend on this same system to support us when needed; in short, give and take. In short, there are a million careers out there. It is up to you to find one that makes you thrive.

Cultural thermometers also come into play in indigenous economics. And, only you can determine which career will either support or rebuke your cultural value system. For example, from class discussion many students have articulated that selfishness is undesirable. People who take from a system that has supported them or their family but then do not contribute to that same system when it needs help do not contribute to community well being.

Well-being is personal and communal. Can a person who lives in a house with other  family members really be happy if the others are not happy? At some point, it rubs off. Indigenous economic theory states that if Well-being is the communal goal, the decisions that are made by the individual members become easier because it always has to serve the community and not the individual.

Hopefully, others can share their opinions in class.