Kathmandu— Despite deep ideological divides, people across the political spectrum share a remarkably similar understanding of economic exploitation, according to a new study. The research challenges the common assumption that the Left and Right operate in fundamentally different moral universes when it comes to economic issues, revealing broad agreement on the core concept of exploitation as an unjust exercise of power resulting in unequal outcomes.

Challenging Existing Assumptions

For decades, political discourse has been characterized by polarization, particularly regarding economic matters. It’s often assumed that the Left and Right hold opposing views on exploitation, with the Left typically framing it as a central flaw of capitalist markets and the Right dismissing such claims as misunderstandings of economics. Karl Marx famously described capital as “dead labor” that exploits living workers, while Robert Nozick argued against the very notion of Marxist exploitation, attributing it to a lack of economic understanding.

Unexpected Common Ground

However, this new research indicates a surprising level of consensus. When asked to define exploitation, participants from both sides of the political spectrum offered strikingly similar responses. The study’s findings support the Left’s long-held argument that exploitation involves an unjust use of power by one party at the expense of another. This shared understanding undermines the notion of a complete ideological gulf between the two sides.

Implications for Political Strategy

The researchers suggest these results have important implications for political strategy, particularly for those on the Left. The common ground identified in this study could provide a foundation for building broader coalitions and fostering more productive dialogue around economic issues. By recognizing the shared moral framework regarding exploitation, it may be possible to move beyond entrenched ideological positions.

The study’s findings suggest that despite political polarization, there is potential for finding common ground on fundamental concepts related to economic justice.

(With inputs from Jacobin)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.