Abstract
Since business is a part of the good life, that life constituted by the virtues, virtues are also important in the contemporary globalized economy. The practice of the virtuous life enables one to avoid falling into the profit-seeking paradox, thus maintaining an open and liberal society by means of a core of freely shared values.
Solidarity is the virtue of love for the common good. Herein, the common good will be analyzed in its two types, two dimensions, and two perspectives. These different aspects result in the manifold meanings of solidarity, which are, however, all manifestations of love for the common good, albeit in its varying dimensions. As it is a virtue to be exercised by all in society, solidarity must not be limited to government intervention.
On the global level, a common good exists only within specific sectors of global cooperation, wherein love of the common good makes sense. Protection of human rights, the creation of global public goods, and trust as global social capital will all be analyzed in their relationship to solidarity.