ABSTRACT
This chapter develops a concept of solidarity with future generations. It describes how studies of intergenerational justice are useful for understanding the uncertainties underlying concerns for future generations. However, these studies suggest abstract principles, which have a limited function as analytical tools in empirical studies. The chapter argues that solidarity is a more helpful concept by the way it combines commitments with binding institutions. A two-dimensional concept of solidarity with future generations is developed. The first dimension comprises ideas of indirect reciprocity with future generations. The second dimension concerns the willingness to establish self-imposed institutional bindings to ensure that governments endorse and sustain measures to safeguard future-oriented goals for the sake of future generations. The core of the concept is that both dimensions must be fulfilled to show social solidarity with future generations. Finally, the concept of solidarity with future generations is operationalised in the form of three questions: (i) What do the commitments to future generations involve? (ii) How binding are the commitments for future generations when implemented in institutional practice? (iii) What other societal concerns are in tension with the institutional bindings for the sake of future generations? These three questions guide the empirical studies in the book.
