kooperatiivsust

Kooperatiivsus, sometimes referred to as cooperativism, is an economic and social philosophy that advocates for voluntary associations of individuals united to achieve common economic, social, and cultural goals. These associations, known as cooperatives, are democratically controlled by their members, who are also typically users or beneficiaries of the cooperative's services. The core principles of cooperation include voluntary and open membership, democratic member control, member economic participation, autonomy and independence, education, training, and information, cooperation among cooperatives, and concern for community.

Cooperatives operate across a wide range of sectors, including agriculture, finance, housing, retail, and worker production. In agricultural cooperatives, farmers pool their resources to purchase supplies, market their produce, or process goods, thereby gaining economies of scale and increased bargaining power. Financial cooperatives, such as credit unions, offer banking services to their members on more favorable terms than traditional banks, with profits being reinvested or returned to members. Worker cooperatives are businesses owned and managed by the employees themselves, promoting shared decision-making and equitable distribution of profits.

The emphasis on democratic control means that each member typically has one vote, regardless of their level of investment or patronage. This structure aims to prevent the concentration of power and ensure that the cooperative serves the interests of all its members. Kooperatiivsus is seen as an alternative model to capitalist enterprises, prioritizing people and shared benefit over profit maximization for external shareholders. It fosters a sense of community and mutual support among its participants.