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Chapter 8 - Thriving Societies

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  14 November 2024

By
Salvatore Di Martino ,
Yunji Kim  and
Syka Iqbal
Edited by
Isaac Prilleltensky ,
Salvatore Di Martino ,
Michael Scarpa  and
Ottar Ness
Isaac Prilleltensky
Affiliation:
University of Miami
Salvatore Di Martino
Affiliation:
University of Bradford
Michael Scarpa
Affiliation:
University of Miami
Ottar Ness
Affiliation:
Norwegian University of Science and Technology
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Summary

Human beings are inherently social. Millennia of evidence show that people improve their lives through various forms of social organization (societies). Therefore, individual, group, and community thriving is intrinsically connected to the advancement of society. Guided by the theory of the common good, this chapter defines the characteristics of a thriving society through the fundamental contribution of fairness, worthiness, and wellness. In terms of fairness, thriving societies require an equitable distribution of benefits and responsibilities (distributive fairness), transparent procedures and active participation (procedural fairness), and a system that both punishes wrongdoings and rewards honorary behaviors (reciprocal fairness). Regarding social worthiness, a thriving society embraces inclusion and diversity, promotes active citizenship, and recognizes the contribution of those who contribute towards societal betterment. Lastly, social wellness emphasizes that a society must prioritize the holistic well-being of all members. Finally, we argue that the synergistic contribution of fairness, worthiness, and wellness can transform societies into places where everyone can thrive.

Keywords

societiessocial thrivingcommon goodsocial wellnesssocial fairnesssocial worthiness
Type
Chapter
Information
How People Thrive
Promoting the Synergy of Wellness, Fairness, and Worthiness
 , pp. 234 - 260
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2024

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