Theorizing the Social Provisioning Process Under Capitalism: Developing a Veblenian Theory of Care for the Twenty-First Century

Authors

Andrew Cumbers, University of Glasgow
John B. Davis, Marquette UniversityFollow
Robert McMaster, University of Glasgow

Document Type

Article

Language

eng

Format of Original

8 p.

Publication Date

2015

Publisher

Taylor & Francis (Routledge)

Source Publication

Journal of Economic Issues

Source ISSN

0021-3624

Abstract

Thorstein Veblen highlighted a number of human instincts, one of which was the “parental bent.” In contrast to the other “positive” instincts, the parental bent is specifically other-regarding in that Veblen described it in terms of utilizing knowledge for the betterment of society. Veblen’s “parental bent” stresses the social embeddedness of humanity and the human instinct to care. Our ability to care is partially predicated on our social roles and the values embedded within those roles. Critically, this is influenced by the configuration of institutions within a society. Care is grossly under-valued. By drawing upon recent contributions to care in the context of an increased financialization of the economy and society, we seek to expand upon Veblen’s insight, and to argue that the most significant deficit confronting our capitalist society is not of the fiscal variety, but resides in care.

Comments

Accepted version. Journal of Economic Issues, Vol. 49, No. 2 (2015): 583-590. DOI. © 2015 Taylor & Francis (Routledge). Used with permission.

Recommended Citation

Cumbers, Andrew; Davis, John B.; and McMaster, Robert, "Theorizing the Social Provisioning Process Under Capitalism: Developing a Veblenian Theory of Care for the Twenty-First Century" (2015). Economics Faculty Research and Publications. 550.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/econ_fac/550