The current model of property, partnership, and family can be redefined through a reconceptualization of ownership and care to include relationality and affectivity. In contemporary Western society, these concepts have become increasingly individualistic and materialistic, emphasizing private possession and economic transactions rather than interconnectedness and emotional bonds. This trend has led to an isolationist mindset that prioritizes personal gain and short-term satisfaction at the expense of long-term wellbeing. By contrast, the relational and affective models recognize the importance of human connection and emotional investment in shaping our social dynamics.
Relationships are built upon mutual trust, respect, understanding, and support - qualities that are often overlooked in traditional ownership structures.
Instead of treating a home as a commodity to be purchased and sold, we might view it as a shared space that is inhabited and nurtured by both individuals. Similarly, businesses can adopt a relational approach to collaboration by valuing teamwork, communication, and collective decision-making. These approaches shift focus away from selfish gains towards collective growth and sustainability.
Affective care involves empathy, compassion, and emotional labor, which are crucial components of healthy relationships. It includes not just physical affection but also mental and emotional intimacy. When applied to ownership and partnership, this concept encourages greater sensitivity towards others' needs and feelings, fostering deeper connections based on reciprocity and vulnerability. It promotes inclusiveness and diversity by acknowledging the unique perspectives and experiences of each member within a group.
By applying these principles to family, we redefine its structure beyond biological ties or legal contracts. Instead of treating parents as providers and children as recipients, families become spaces where all members contribute their skills, strengths, and insights to create a unified whole. This model recognizes each individual's value regardless of age or status, allowing for more fluid roles and less rigid expectations. By sharing responsibilities and celebrating differences, it creates an environment of harmony and empowerment.
Relationality and affective care offer alternative models for property, partnership, and family that prioritize human connection and emotional investment. They challenge traditional norms and encourage us to consider how our choices impact those around us. By embracing these values, we can create a more equitable and fulfilling society that places relationships at the center of personal and social life.
Can relationality and affective care redefine normative models of ownership, partnership, and family?
The concept of ownership is largely shaped by cultural norms and values that are grounded in capitalist ideals such as individualism and competition. In contrast, relationality emphasizes interdependence and mutuality among people, challenging traditional understandings of property ownership. Similarly, affective care recognizes the importance of empathy and emotional connection in relationships, encouraging more collaborative and supportive forms of togetherness.