ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses various approaches to solidarity among contemporaries and defines what is meant by solidarity in this book. Solidarity among contemporaries is defined in terms of two dimensions that, in combination, constitute the concept of solidarity. The first dimension consists of ideas of reciprocity and mutual obligations among equal individuals with shared values, goals, or interests. The second dimension is a willingness to enter collective, binding obligations through formal institutions. Moreover, the chapter argues that the call for solidarity is a response to something missing and a call for action to rectify this situation. It has a forward-looking character. Nation states’ constitutions are decisive for solidarity as they place restrictions on the powers of the legislative and provide confidence in reciprocity and mutual obligations over time. Finally, the chapter reflects upon how nation state politics and cosmopolitanism are two different normative responses to contemporary global challenges.
