Frontiers of Commoning, with David Bollier WIll Ruddick on 'Commitment Pooling' to Build Economic Commons
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Mar 1, 2024 Will Ruddick discusses 'commitment pooling' in creating community currencies to empower marginalized African groups. The evolution of community currency systems is explored, highlighting the shift towards collective ownership and stewardship. The podcast advocates for redefining ownership through traditional practices in economic commons and breaking free from the wage slavery system.
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Indigenous Mutual Aid Practices
- Indigenous communities used rotational labor associations and mutual commitments to build assets and houses without money.
- These practices were foundational to civilization but have largely been undocumented and lost.
Bangla Pisa Currency Story
- The Bangla Pisa community currency started with 100 local businesses issuing paper vouchers that quickly gained popularity.
- Authorities initially opposed it, even arresting organizers, but the efforts won legal clearance and community trust.
Commitment Pooling Creates Resilient Exchange
- Commitment pooling expresses clear intentions behind vouchers to ensure value and utility.
- Connecting multiple voucher systems via digital ledgers creates a resilient network improving community exchange.