Corporatism facts for kids

Corporatism is a way of thinking in politics where different groups in society work together with the government to make decisions. These groups might include workers, businesses, or farmers. The idea is that these groups should have a say in how the country is run.

Sometimes, these groups choose to join in, and this is called liberal corporatism. Other times, they are made to join, and this is known as authoritarian corporatism. An old example of corporatism is the guilds that existed in the Middle Ages, where groups of skilled workers (like bakers or blacksmiths) had rules and worked together.

What is Corporatism?

Corporatism is a political idea that suggests society works best when organized into major interest groups. These groups are often based on what people do for a living, like farmers, factory workers, or business owners. Instead of individuals making all decisions, these large groups speak for their members.

The government then works closely with these groups to create laws and policies. This way, the government can get advice from people who know a lot about different parts of the economy and society. It's like a big team meeting where everyone important has a seat at the table.

How Does it Work?

In a corporatist system, organizations like labor unions (for workers) or business associations (for companies) become very important. They don't just protest or ask for things; they become official partners with the government.

For example, if the government wants to make a new law about wages, it might talk directly with a big union and a big business group. They would try to agree on a fair wage that works for both workers and companies. This is different from a system where many small groups might compete for influence.

Two Kinds of Corporatism

Corporatism can look different depending on how much choice the groups have in joining and working with the government.

Liberal Corporatism: Working Together

In liberal corporatism, groups choose to work with the government. They are not forced to join or agree. This often happens in countries where people have a lot of freedom.

• Voluntary Participation: Groups decide if they want to be part of the decision-making process.
• Negotiation: The government, businesses, and workers' groups talk and try to find solutions that everyone can agree on.
• Examples: Some countries in Europe have used this approach, where unions and employers have a strong voice in national economic policies.

Authoritarian Corporatism: Forced Participation

Authoritarian corporatism is when groups are made to work with the government. They might not have a choice about joining or about what decisions are made. This type of corporatism is usually found in countries where the government has a lot of control.

• No Choice: The government decides which groups exist and who represents them.
• Government Control: The government often tells the groups what to do, rather than negotiating with them.
• Historical Examples: Some governments in the 20th century used this system to control their economies and societies.

History of Corporatism

The idea of different groups working together has been around for a long time.

Ancient Roots

Even in ancient times, people organized into groups based on their jobs or families. These groups sometimes had a role in how their communities were run.

Medieval Guilds

A clear example of early corporatism is the guilds of the Middle Ages. Guilds were groups of people who did the same job, like bakers, weavers, or carpenters.

• Rules and Standards: Guilds set rules for their trade, like how much things should cost or how apprentices (young learners) should be trained.
• Community Role: They also played a part in local government and social life. They looked after their members and made sure their trade was respected.
• Influence: Guilds had a lot of influence in their towns and cities, showing how organized groups could shape society.

Modern Ideas

In more recent times, especially in the 19th and 20th centuries, the idea of corporatism came back. Some thinkers believed it could create a more stable society by bringing different parts of the community together.

• Social Harmony: The goal was often to reduce conflict between workers and business owners by having them work together.
• Economic Planning: Governments sometimes used corporatism to plan the economy and make sure industries were working efficiently.

Corporatism Today

While pure corporatist systems are rare today, some elements of corporatism can still be seen in many countries. Governments often consult with major business groups, labor unions, and other organizations when making important decisions about the economy or social welfare.

• Advisory Councils: Many countries have councils or committees where representatives from different parts of society give advice to the government.
• Social Partnerships: In some places, unions and employers work together to set wages and working conditions, often with government support.

This shows that the idea of different groups working together for the good of society is still important in how many countries are governed.

See also

In Spanish: Corporativismo para niños