The Disappearing Commonwealth Wealth
As I write from the heart of the United Kingdom, a place steeped in history and tradition, I find myself reflecting on the concept of the Commonwealth… And as I stroll through the elegant streets of Belgravia, surrounded by the grandeur of historic estates, I am further reflecting on the timeless principles that have shaped wealth and society…
In its modern form, the Commonwealth represents a union of nations with shared goals and mutual respect. But perhaps the roots of this idea go much deeper, reaching back to ancient Roman ideals like res publica—the public thing, the common good.
The term “commonwealth” emerged in the English language during the 15th century, evolving from “common weal,” meaning the common good or public welfare. It seems that this term carries within it the essence of res publica. Just like in ancient Rome, wealth might have been intended to serve not just individuals but the many.
Cicero, the great Roman philosopher, once posed a crucial thought: “The welfare of the people is the highest law” (Salus populi suprema lex esto).
For Cicero, the well-being of the republic was not only the concern of its rulers but the duty of every citizen. Could it be that wealth, in this sense, was never meant to be just a personal achievement, but rather a shared resource for the greater good of the community?
The Commonwealth as a Modern Res Publica
The term “commonwealth” has changed over centuries, yet it still seems to hold the core principle that wealth should serve the public interest. Here in the UK, the Commonwealth of Nations might represent this idea on a global scale—a collection of nations bound not by power, but by shared values. This could mirror Cicero’s vision of a republic where the wealth of the state is held in trust for the benefit of all its citizens.
As we think about this, Sir Thomas More’s vision in Utopia comes to mind.
More once suggested, “The structure of our society shapes our behavior, and if we could design a commonwealth where resources are shared equally, might it lead to a better society?”
His ideal society implied that the way we organize our wealth and resources could either uplift or undermine the common good. In fact, More's influence extended far beyond his book; his ideas significantly shaped the political discourse of his time, contributing to the eventual choice of the term "Commonwealth" to describe the United Kingdom and its associated realms—a name that reflects the aspiration for a society dedicated to the common good.
What If Cicero’s and More’s Wisdom applies in Modern Wealth?
So, how might we reframe our understanding of wealth in today’s world?
In a time where individual success often dominates, there might be another way—one that leans into shared prosperity. It seems that Cicero, More, and the concept of commonwealth could still offer us valuable insights.
What if Wealth is a Public Duty?: Cicero seemed to believe that wealth’s ultimate purpose was to serve the republic. What if we viewed our financial resources as tools to enhance the commonwealth—investing in communities, supporting fairness, and promoting the common good?
What if Civic Responsibility is the Key?: In both ancient Rome and the modern Commonwealth, civic duty was central. Perhaps our responsibility to our communities extends beyond our taxes, urging us to engage actively in public life—mentoring, supporting local businesses, and volunteering our time.
What if Legacy and Sustainability are True Wealth?: Cicero often spoke of leaving a legacy that benefits future generations. Could it be that the most important wealth we can create is sustainable, ensuring that our economic choices today uplift those who come after us?
What if Commonwealth is the Path Forward?: The Commonwealth of Nations exemplifies shared wealth and mutual support on a global scale. Perhaps fostering international cooperation in business, trade, and finance is a path forward—where wealth is not just for the few, but a common good for all.
Uncovering the Wealth Mystery: The Final Clue
Here in the UK, where the legacy of the Commonwealth still resonates, I wonder if there’s something enduring about Cicero’s and More’s ideals. Wealth, when viewed through the lens of res publica and the modern Commonwealth, seems to become more than just personal success—it becomes a powerful force for collective prosperity.
In our pursuit of financial independence, it might be that we haven’t yet uncovered the higher calling of wealth: to serve the commonwealth, to enrich not just ourselves, but the communities to which we belong. As Cicero might suggest, the true measure of wealth is not in how much we accumulate, but in how much we contribute to the public good. And as More might add, the society we build—and the wealth within it—should be designed to uplift all, rather than to punish or exclude.
What if the real question of wealth is not how much we have, but how much we share?
Welcome to The Naked Wealth™ Koan—a simple yet challenging idea that asks us to rethink wealth in its purest form. It’s not just about how much we own, but what we do with it that truly counts.
Stay tuned—there are more Koans to come, so let’s see where this journey takes us…
… while you are reflecting, here are some IMMERSIVE INSPIRATIONALS:
Books
"Utopia" by Sir Thomas More
"On Duties" by Cicero
"The Republic" by Plato
"The Wealth of Nations" by Adam Smith
"The Common Good" by Robert B. Reich
"Sacred Economics" by Charles Eisenstein
"The Spirit Level: Why More Equal Societies Almost Always Do Better" by Richard Wilkinson and Kate Pickett
Art
Music
"Ode to Joy" from Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9
"The Four Seasons" by Antonio Vivaldi
"Pastoral Symphony" (Symphony No. 6) by Ludwig van Beethoven
"A Change Is Gonna Come" by Sam Cooke
"Imagine" by John Lennon
"Blowin' in the Wind" by Bob Dylan
"Redemption Song" by Bob Marley