Tackling ill-structured problems with cooperatives: A proposal for further research and application

Abstract

In this paper we argue that cooperatives are particularly well-equipped to solve ill-structured problems relating to sustainability. Rather than drawing on completed research, this is a conceptual article with the aim to connect two areas of research: cooperatives and ill-structured problems. Ill-structured problems such as climate change or resource scarcity are difficult to define, and include various stakeholders with competing interests and conflicting demands. In this paper we posit that certain attributes of cooperatives suggest their application to such ill-structured problems - foremost among them sustainability. Our examination proceeds in two parts: first we briefly outline the characteristics of ill-structured problems and highlight two examples in the history of cooperatives with an emphasis on their use to solve such problem types. In the second part of the paper, we detail three characteristics of cooperatives that we think endow them with the potential to contribute to sustainability challenges. Rather than deliver finalized research results, it is our aim to contribute to the ongoing discussion of how cooperatives could contribute to ongoingsocietal challenges.