ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY: A THREE-LEVEL DEFINITION

Abstract

Purpose is to reveal the economic essence of the category “self-sufficiency” and to determine the structural characteristics of the concept as the basis of security and independence economic systems in modern conditions. Methodology of research. Theoretical and methodological basis of research are the underlying principles of the economic theory, a systematic approach to the study of economic phenomena, the development and research of domestic and foreign scientists on issues of self-sufficiency and economic security. In the research used such methods as: abstract-logical (theoretical generalizations and the formulation of conclusions, clarification of concepts relating to the subject of the research); Economics and statistics, in particular techniques (processing of economic information for studying the state and patterns of the investigated phenomena and processes development); content analysis (analysis of documents, selection of research sources, and interpretation of research data). Findings. On the basis of studying and generalization of Ukrainian and foreign experience the essence of economic category “self-sufficiency” was defined. Three levels of economic self-sufficiency: individual-collective, corporate, national were defined and characterized. The positive and negative aspects of "self-sufficiency" for each level in the context of sustainable economic development were revealed. It was found that “self-sufficiency” in its pure form on the corporate and state level in the context of globalization is practically unattainable and unworkable, however, the higher the level of autonomy, the higher level of security (economic, social, political It is proved that each type (level) of self-sufficiency can be in reality, however, the price and liability of such an existence is different. In the case of individual and collective type of „self-sufficiency" – this is an individual decision and, accordingly, the personal responsibility for this choice, but making a decisions on self-sufficiency at the corporate and state level, the responsibility is not only personal, but social and national. Decision-making at these levels should be in the plane of creation of favorable conditions for sustainable development of the country and its social prosperity. Originality. The interpretation of the essence of the concept of “self-sufficiency”, which is based on a three-level approach, considering self-sufficiency as a system of economic security of life individuals, enterprises and the state was improved. Practical value. The obtained results will contribute to a deeper understanding of the feasibility and limits of self- sufficiency in socio-economic systems, and can be used for the development of the national security strategy of Ukraine.