Solidarity is often thought of as a virtue that unites people across cultural, religious, social, and economic divides.
Its universal applicability has been challenged by scholars who argue that it can never be divorced from context, historical circumstances, and power dynamics. While there are undeniable variations in how individuals experience solidarity depending on their social positioning, it does seem possible to conceive of solidarity as an ethical principle that transcends these differences and binds together all humanity. In this article, I will explore some of the ways in which solidarity can be conceptualized as a universal ethical principle bridging differences.
Solidarity can be understood as a shared commitment to common values and goals that cuts across social divisions. This means that while individuals may have different beliefs and priorities, they can still come together around a common vision of justice, equality, or freedom.
Workers across the globe can join forces to demand better working conditions, even if they work in vastly different industries and countries. Solidarity in this sense requires acknowledging the dignity of others and recognizing that our fates are intertwined.
Solidarity can also be seen as a form of recognition, whereby we recognize the agency and worth of those with whom we share common ground. This implies that even though individuals may belong to different groups or hold opposing views, they should not be written off as insignificant or irrelevant. Instead, they should be treated with respect and empathy, as fellow humans who deserve our attention and care. This is especially important when considering issues such as climate change or global poverty, where everyone has a stake in finding solutions.
Solidarity can be understood as a call to action, whereby we actively engage with others in order to create positive change. This involves challenging oppressive structures and systems that prevent people from realizing their full potential.
Feminists have long advocated for gender solidarity, whereby women unite against patriarchy and work towards gender equality. Similarly, anti-racist activism seeks to build bridges between communities of color, challenging white supremacy and creating space for meaningful dialogue and collaboration.
Solidarity can be conceived as a form of hope, whereby we believe in a future in which all human beings can coexist peacefully and equitably. This means envisioning a world without borders, divisions, and hierarchies, where diversity is celebrated and differences are embraced. By committing to solidarity, we can cultivate a sense of shared responsibility and accountability, recognizing that we all play a role in shaping the world around us.
While there are undoubtedly many nuances and complexities surrounding the concept of solidarity, it seems possible to think of it as a universal ethical principle that transcends social, cultural, and political divides. Whether we choose to recognize its importance depends on how seriously we take our commitment to building a more just and inclusive society.
Can solidarity be conceptualized as a universal ethical principle bridging differences?
Solidarity is often associated with social movements, activism, and collective action. It is commonly understood as a feeling of unity, cohesion, and support among individuals who share common experiences, beliefs, values, or goals. From this perspective, it can be seen as a way for people to come together and work towards positive change in their communities.