What it means to be COTN
COTN stands for Collective, Order, Traditional, National. You lean towards a state that guards jobs, wages and public services. You also value shared culture, family and national belonging.
In its mainstream form this is a communitarian social democrat or a centre-left traditionalist. You think society is more than a pile of individuals and that duty to community matters. You probably want the economy to serve citizens first.
Views you probably hold
- The state should protect jobs, wages and public services.
- Shared culture and common duties hold a society together.
- A country should look after its own citizens first.
- Strong families and local institutions make strong communities.
- Markets should be kept in check where they harm communities.
What admirers see
- Admirers say it ties economic fairness to a sense of shared belonging.
- It speaks to people who feel left behind by globalisation.
- It treats community and duty as just as real as individual rights.
What critics say
- Critics say stress on national belonging can leave out minorities and newcomers.
- Opponents argue that tight protection of home industry raises costs.
- Critics say strong shared values can limit personal freedom.
In history
This shape includes corporatism, communitarianism, integralism, African socialism and Eurasianism. Ba'athism and Chavismo also land here. Mainstream versions appear in Catholic social teaching and in social democratic parties that stress community. The shape also covers some authoritarian regimes, which this site does not equate with the broader outlook.