The Moralization of the Markets in Europe

Abstract

Nothing effects modern society more than the decisions made in the market place, especially (but not only) the judgments of consumers. The designation of market relations in modern societies as the "moralization of the markets" represents a novel stage in the social evolution of markets. Market theories still widely in use today emerged in a society that no longer exists. Today, growing affluence, greater knowledge, and hi-speed communication among consumers builds into the marketplace notions of fairness, solidarity, environment, health, and political considerations imbued with a long-term perspective that can disrupt short-term pursuits of the best buy. Importantly, such social goals, individual apprehensions, and models of consumer conduct become inscribed in products and services offered in the marketplace, as well as in the rules and regulations that govern market relations.

Economic Dimensions of Environmental Citizenship

“…Individual attitudes and values that make a change of the own consumer behaviour are crucial. The 'moralization of the markets' with the judgement of the consumers is rising (Stehr 2008). One of the positive effects of proenvironmental behaviour is the possibility of saving money by using energy in an efficient way (e.g.…”

A BIG RESPONSIBILITY! The Moralization of markets and Rise of supermarket patriotism

“…The moralisaTion of markeTs: responsible corporaTions, eThical goods and ciTizen-consumers There are various -and at times almost contradictory -explanations for why the moralisation of economy occurs, and thus there are different ways a discussion about the moralisation of Australian supermarkets could be situated. The most optimistic of these theories see the embedding of moral values in the economy as a form of social empowerment resulting from the increasing levels of wealth among first world capitalist societies, and describe its effects in terms of a redistribution of powers in market relationships between producers and consumers (Marsland 2001;Stehr 2008;Stehr and Adolf 2010). Although this article engages with some of these ideas, theories explaining the moralisation of economy within the context of neoliberal culture will be used extensively.…”