Time-Questions

2. Time and Man

The interviewees generally agreed that change and thus development always has to start with man. The question as to the importance of the factor time therefore always starts with the question as to the rhythm of people. There are two positions:

• First: mankind by nature has difficulties with change and transformations. He orientates himself along trusted categories and processes; he seeks where possible to avoid reforms and innovations. But man can’t really be faster: natural “speed limits” become apparent through the example of learning: A certain amount of time is necessary to learn. Trust also does not develop over night.
• The second position goes one step further: Martin Bröckelmann-Simon, Director of Misereor states: “Slow is always an expression of something”. The apparent slowness of the partner must not simply be seen as a culturally conditioned mentality and thus as irrevocable, but is an expression of – conscious or subconscious – setting priorities. The Kassel economist Stefan Voigt also is against the “cudgel of mentalities”: “It is our duty to find the rationality in the behavior of actors.” The approach to time orientates itself on the circumstance, on institutions and individual life situations, the understanding of which is the basis for sustainable cooperation.

The consequence is, that the speed of change has to be co-determined by those affected. They have to be carried along in heart and mind. A crucial factor for change is the strain imposed by suffering and the consensus on the necessity for change. Only then change can be sustainable.

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