Read On
Many good books have been written recently about the importance of a strong local business economy. These books stress the economic benefits and the importance of maintaining a unique local flavor.
One such book is "Going Local " by Michael Shuman. Here’s what Shuman has to say:
On local flavor...
"Ask your family, friends and neighbors what matters most to them, and you’re likely to hear words like love, security, spirituality, beauty, good health, even fun. Americans wax eloquent about their children and grandchildren having a decent education, safe neighborhoods, humane values. They reflect on the importance of their church or synagogue, their favorite sports teams or television show, or their latest political cause...Even the most business-minded mention families and passions before they turn to shopping, mortgages, wages, and material possessions that are the preoccupations of economists.
Our deepest yearnings are linked to a sense of place. We care especially about our neighbors, our community institutions, and our ecological heritage. Even post-modern nomads who crisscross the globe for pleasure or profit carry loyalty to somewhere. Why else do you get excited when you’re driving down a highway, a thousand miles from home, and see a car with your state’s license plate or your university’s name prominently displayed on the back windshield? "
On economics...
‘Suppose a community were to start a network of locally owned and operated corporations which took care of most of its needs for energy, food, water, housing, and clothing. Would this really add up to local self-reliance?...What good does it do to achieve self-reliance in the necessities?
The benefits turn out to be impressive: In the short term, the community expands the local multiplier. As jobs and income grow, so do the local tax base and the public services. The provision of basics for local needs means that the community, through either the market economy or public assistance, can provide a baseline of decency for all its citizens. The long-term benefit of weaning a community away from depending on outsiders is that the community reduces its vulnerability to events outside its control.’
Here’s a recommended reading list if you’re interested in learning more about the homegrown movement:
The Home Town Advantage by Stacy Mitchell (2000)
Explores the impacts of chain stores vs. community businesses and strategies used by communities to promote independent locally owned business. Highly recommended for those looking for extensive factual information and examples.
Going Local by Michael Shuman (1998)
Examines community programs for self-reliance and economic strength in a global age and includes a tremendous resource directory.
The Case Against the Global Economy -- and For a Turn Toward the Local by Jerry Mander and Edward Goldsmith eds. (1996)
This collection of essays from around the world describes campaigns to promote local economic strength and stability as well as analyzing larger issues in the global economy and corporatization.
Slam-Dunking Wal-Mart by Al Norman (1999)
Though the book is geared toward individual struggles to stop single unwanted big box stores, there's good, broadly applicable organizing information as well.
Better, Not Bigger by Eben Fodor (1999)
Demonstrates often overlooked economic costs of growth and sprawl while promoting human-scale development.
The Economic Renewal Guide by Michael Kinsley (1997)
Introduces the Rocky Mountain Institute's Economic Renewal Program -plans for building prosperity by thinking outside the conventional development paradigm.
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