ICA International Research Conference on Local Society & Global Economy: The Role of Co-operatives

Abstract

Research on co-operatives examines a field that has fascinated philosophers and thinkers since time immemorial - how can collective initiatives be set up and function effectively. Of course this field is much wider than co-operatives but cooperatives provide very rich seam for developing thinking on this important subject. And developing useful research in this area is becoming more and more pressing, as a series of associated pressures combine to challenge the effectiveness of existing initiatives,, provoking both degeneration and creative responses. The current challenges are those faced by any enterprise in modem market economies - adaptation to ruthless competition in traditional markets as well as new public services markets (health, social care, recycling, transport, and utilities). But co-operatives face such pressures with distinct advantages and distinct disadvantages compared to their capitalist competitors. Learning about how to exploit these advantages and minimize the disadvantages is the job o f researchers and managers and boards and co-op members alike. It is for this reason that all of these people are welcomed at our research conferences. But there is another vital dimension of co-operatives that demands the attention o f researchers, practitioners and policy-makers. That is its role in civil societies - both as an economic force (for disadvantaged groups, to maintain choice for consumers, to exert pressure on prices and quality for consumers and producers) but also as a force in democratic society - generating social capital, in order to sustain the fabric of society.