Misjudged gifts in the economy

This RMI event is about practices that do not fit in with conventional notions of economics. Exchange as a calculated service and consideration is considered typical of the economic process. However, sales and labour contracts can only explain to a limited extent what keeps the economy running on a daily basis. The extent to which the functioning of markets and businesses depends on "gifts" is usually misjudged. These are contributions that cannot be contractually expected, that are not given for the sake of a benefit and that nevertheless - and therefore - serve the common good and strengthen the foundations of the economy.

Three renowned guest speakers will set new accents in this topic at the RMI debate: Günther Ortmann (HSU) presents in his new book "Beyond the contract" a wealth of contributions that people in companies make because they are concerned with dignity and decency. In his new book "Der Markt der befreundeten Bürger im reichen Athen", Birger Priddat (UW/H) undertakes a fork-theoretical revision of Aristotle's economics of friendship and refers, among other things, to "sharing" in the friendship network. David Seidl (University of Zurich) represents a practice-theoretical perspective on strategy processes and shows that strategies are continuously shaped by the informal and emergent contribution of many.

The full announcement can be found here. Participation in the event, including a small reception afterwards, is free of charge after prior registration at rmi@uni-wh.de.