Practicing Uncivilize
In a world driven by consumerism and relentless growth, it's imperative that we pause and critically examine the very foundations of our society. We’re facing a series of crises, both mental and material, that are now impossible to ignore. It's time for a paradigm shift—a reimagining of how we live, work, and relate to inner and outer world.
1 The Problem with Capitalism
Our Mental Crises
We’re addicted to progress, a love affair with the shiny and new. Enlightenment concepts like; dualism and the inexorable march of civilization continue to shape our thinking. These very ideas fueled capitalism, shaping our perception of progress as an unstoppable force, nature as a bottomless well, and labor as a tradable commodity. It might be time we hit the brakes and replace progress with a new concept that has the well-being of all in mind not just nihilistic material wealth and convenience at the expense of everything else.
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The separation of man from nature combined with the belief that humans inherited the earth severed a sacred bond, distancing ‘civilized’ societies from nature, lower civilizations, and women who were considered closer to nature and, consequently, exploitable. This mindset justified land grabs, slavery, colonial endeavors, and deforestation, among other exploitative practices. Similarly, the division of mind from body allowed labor to be treated as a tradable asset, resulting in increasingly unfavorable work conditions.
The evolution of these practices went hand in hand with further alienation from ourselves, others, and our environment.
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The capitalist pursuit of profit has yielded material wealth, but at a cost:As we switched from many jobs and roles to provide for ourselves and our communities to a single job that provides income to buy things we gave up rewarding and meaningful activities. Now our daily grind often boils down to a single job that’s increasingly abstract and under pressure of efficiency thinking. It’s merely a means to obtain our 'necessities', while everything else is commoditized. This trend, started with material goods, it soon extended to roles like caregiving and education, and now encroaches on our friendships, ideas, and attention.
It's little wonder we yearn for deeper purpose and creativity. When everything becomes a purchasable product, even attention and friendships, it erodes our sense of fulfillment and leaves us feeling empty.
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Homo economicus measures well-being solely in economic terms. So to live up to its promise to grow prosperity people are incentivized to consume more every year. This establishes a culture of competitive consumption, bolstered by media, advertising, legislation, and government support. This leads to a cycle where individuals strive to maximize income through, education that maximizes you economic potential, increasingly stressful and specialized jobs, to ultimately compete with friends as success is equated with material possessions.
With our worldwide view we’re exposed to unattainable standards set by influencers and celebrities, as well as problems and challenges far beyond our control, resulting in the stress of grappling with unfixable issues and striving to meet unattainable standards.
The ongoing alienation, emptiness, and anxiety have given rise to a spectrum of modern afflictions, including financial woes, eating disorders, attention deficits, and more. It's crucial to reevaluate our approach to progress, prioritizing the broader well-being of society over individual material gains.
2 Fuel to Fire
Our Material Crises
Throughout history, our energy landscape has undergone significant shifts. Two and a half centuries back, coal emerged as the powerhouse behind the industrial revolution, reshaping societies worldwide. As the 20th century dawned, oil took the lead, further propelling us into an era of automation and specialized professions.
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Today, we confront a sobering reality: our once-plentiful energy stores are depleting. More than half of the Earth's oil reserves have already been tapped, leaving us with the more challenging, hard-to-reach reserves. Resources we once took for granted - sand, phosphorus, clean air and water, and rare earth metals - are growing scarcer.
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Capitalism accelerates the conversion of natural resources into products through cheap labor and energy. With each step in this process, we delved deeper into both planetary and human resources. Fueled by abundant and inexpensive fossil fuels, we constructed increasingly complex global technology suites that support activities such as extraction, refinement, manufacturing, trade, transportation, promotion, and sales. However, in doing so, we have disregarded the true costs associated with appropriating natural and human resources.
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Our modern society relies on these interconnected technology systems, which were built upon and remain heavily dependent on fossil fuels. These systems sustain the energy-intensive lifestyles of the developed world while perpetuating disadvantages for the developing world. The intricacy of these systems makes it difficult to perceive the true impact of our actions. For instance, when we command a smart speaker to turn off the lights, it triggers a series of global technology suites to accomplish a task that could easily be done by flipping a switch ourselves. Although the magnitude of the infrastructure and energy required to achieve this convenience often goes unnoticed, it is truly gargantuan.
With our worldwide view we’re exposed to unattainable standards set by influencers and celebrities, as well as problems and challenges far beyond our control, resulting in the stress of grappling with unfixable issues and striving to meet unattainable standards.
This pivotal juncture in our history demands a reevaluation of the inefficiencies woven into the fabric of the world we've created. Do we continue to double down on extraction, gambling the fate of the planet on endeavors like space mining, geo-engineering, and nuclear fusion? Or do we acknowledge the simple truth that perpetual growth is unnatural, that in nature, every system grows to ultimately reach a state of balance. It's time to explore the alternatives available in our own history.
The complexity and our society’s complete dependence on technology suites makes it really hard to address the issues we’re facing in terms of depletion, waste and pollution.
In real simple terms we’ve swapped nature as an all inclusive system that produces shelter, building materials, medicine and food for all beings without waste for a global industrial system that turns nature into products exclusively for humans at the cost of all beings and the planet itself.
3 A Short History of Progress
Consider this: there are 2.5 million ants for every human, outweighing our combined mass. Yet, the idea that ants could cause global crises akin to humans seems absurd. Like ants for 99.9% of human history, we coexisted harmoniously with the natural world. Let's revisit those practices and craft alternative approaches aligned with modern sensibilities and knowledge.
To do so let’s borrow the the concept of the four stages of civilization, this is a debunked theory and gross simplification but we can use it to illustrate that societies can function in different energy modes. Throughout history, societies have grown by increasing labor, expanding population, and adopting new energy sources. Energy empowers them to access resources and shape their culture and can be taken as a measure of progress. However, as crucial resources become scarce, this growth becomes unsustainable, leading to societal decline. These activities also affect the environment in proportion to available energy, causing depletion, waste, and pollution.
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In this early phase, property extended only as far as one could carry. Hunter-gatherers were integral parts of their ecosystems, directly consuming and reciprocating with nature. Their impact was minimal, leaving the balance of nature largely undisturbed.
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With the advent of herding and horticultural societies, energy was invested in domesticating animals and transforming the land. This shift in focus led to the externalization of costs, as it became advantageous to sacrifice nature in favor of personal gains.
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Agriculture's ascension from subsistence farming to specialized industry brought forth new specializations. This phase witnessed the birth of professions like milling, baking, and water management, further shaping human culture and the built environment.
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In the modern age, we find ourselves in a global industrial system, defined by mass production and free trade. This phase, is characterized by a global industry that exploits nature's resources.
Understanding these historical modes allows us to see that societies have thrived with smaller footprints, even without coming close to Earth's boundaries. With a population of eight billion, we can still live well within our means. This is not a proposal to regress but an invitation to modernize these practices and question how we operate, creating a sustainable mix of modes that prioritizes well-being over material wealth.
4 Redefining Progress
In contemplating these modes, it's crucial to understand that they never existed in a pure, isolated form. They don't map out an inevitable trajectory toward a more advanced society. Our current commercial civilization isn't an automatic byproduct of progress. Instead, people -throughout history- have woven together various ways of life, often shunning what they saw as inhumane and exploitative in "more civilized" societies.
“The love of possessions is a disease in them. These people have made many rules that the rich may break, but the poor may not! They have a religion in which the poor worship, but the rich will not! They even take tithes from the poor and weak to support the rich and those who rule. They claim this mother of ours, the earth, for their own use, and fence their neighbor away. “
Tȟatȟáŋka Íyotake, Sitting Bull
Modern examples abound where groups prioritize human well-being over sheer economic growth. The Amish, for one, challenge and reject modern technologies that jeopardize their way of life. The Zapatistas in Mexico have forged a self-governing autonomous zone that upholds indigenous rights, democracy, and social justice over economic growth. Numerous smaller endeavors, like ecovillages and cooperatives akin to Mondragon in the Basque country, spotlight sustainability, social equality, and community, eschewing the relentless pursuit of economic progress.
Let's entertain a fresh perspective on these modes of civilization. Across history, all these modes have stayed accessible to us into the present, and we possess the autonomy to apply them as we see fit. Each mode mirrors a distinct relationship with the natural world, ourselves, and those around us.
Consumer Mode
When we participate in a global industry that exploits nature's resources, we become consumers who can order any food we like online to be delivered within minutes. Our role as consumer is strictly separated from our role as producer (our job).
Specialist Mode
By harnessing renewable energy and fostering local industries that produce goods and culture, such as farmer’s markets, we become communities of specialists. We take on a meaningful role within the community to strengthen it with our unique skills.
Maker Mode
When we use our physical strength and simple tools to shape nature according to our needs, such as tending a vegetable garden, we embrace the role of makers. We cultivate skills and knowledge to become more autarchic and take care of our own.
Commoner Mode
When we gather berries or forage from the land, we embody the spirit of commoners, taking from the commons and reciprocating as part of the interconnected natural world. We realize we’re an integral part of nature and work to restore that bond.
So what if we embraced these alternative modes, and started trying them out, see what fits. We believe you can do this as an individual, a business as a government or legislator. And that together we can start to put these alternative modes in place while we shift away from our consumer mode. In doing so we create a cushion that dampens the decline of society so it can stabilize in a sustainable mix of modes that is not about growth and material wealth but about the genuine wellbeing of all.
5 Build your Uncivilize Practice
For far too long, we've been confined within the invisible walls of a metaphorical prison. We’re behind bars of legislation, education, advertisement, and the very culture that surrounds us—all underpinned by an unwavering faith in perpetual progress. We've grown accustomed to this comfortable captivity, yet deep down, we sense the cost of this comfort, and we understand it's a bill we can no longer afford to pay. For the first time, we're witnessing a decline in the quality of life within these confines.
Stepping out of this familiar but confining space is a daunting prospect. However, it's essential. This chapter offers straightforward strategies and valuable insights for governments, businesses, and individuals to begin forging new pathways towards a more sustainable future. So, let's get practical. In this chapter, we'll explore two simple yet powerful strategies to guide us towards a better, more balanced future.
Shift Away from Consumer Mode
Rather than measuring our worth by material possessions, let's adopt a mindset of deliberate, conscious consumption. This entails understanding the genuine costs associated with consumer goods. By reevaluating our roles as consumers, we can free ourselves from the trappings of luxury and convenience.
Embrace Alternative Modes
Exploring new modes of living offers a richer, more sustainable way forward. By relinquishing the role of a mere consumer, we open ourselves to experiences that are authentic, meaningful, and deeply rewarding. This shift fosters genuine connections, revitalizes communities, and restores harmony between humanity, autonomy, and ecology.
5.1 Shift Away from 'Consumer Mode'
After exposing "man as consumer” as inherently unsustainable and detrimental to our physical and mental well-being, as well as the environment, the question arises: How can we liberate ourselves from this mode that so completely defines our lives? Where do we start?
Let's begin by acknowledging that the monumental amounts of energy that were poured into science and technological innovation propelled scientific and technological progress, gifting us with invaluable knowledge and groundbreaking inventions. Let’s safeguard and nurture this reservoir of wisdom, channeling talent and resources away from market-driven ventures and towards vital pursuits that enrich our lives. This shift entails redirecting funds that subsidize the global industrial economy, such as fossil subsidies, towards endeavors that address our pressing crises.
For consumers, the journey starts with discernment. Distinguish between what genuinely enhances our lives and what is driven by mere comfort, convenience, trendiness, or radical monopolies, leading to isolation, disconnection, feelings of inadequacy and dependence. Much like the Amish, let us meticulously identify the elements that truly foster well-being and equality. As consumers, we exercise our influence through financial choices, opting out of needless purchases, and through activism, challenging advertising, lobbying, and unethical practices.
In the realm of consumer goods, businesses can turn to regenerative production methods: closed-loop systems, cradle-to-cradle approaches, and biomimicry. The focus here lies in making essentials universally accessible without stimulating further, needless expansion.
Governments shoulder a crucial role in reevaluating how technological suites operate, ensuring sustainability takes precedence over unfettered growth that could push us beyond Earth's limits. This reimagining extends to global communication, transportation, and power supply, guaranteeing their availability well into the future for essential tasks.
Understanding the Consumer Dilemma: Breaking free from the role of consumers, which defines how we live, can be a daunting prospect. Our dependency on complex technology suites, from smartphones to public infrastructure, often feels inescapable.
The Power of Discernment: Discernment is our first tool. It's about distinguishing between genuine needs and superficial desires. By understanding the true costs and consequences of our purchases, we can begin to make more mindful choices.
Redirecting Resources: Embracing a mindful, intentional approach to consumption involves redirecting resources towards endeavors that enrich our lives. This may entail reevaluating where we invest our time, energy, and finances.
5.2 Embrace Alternative Modes
By abandoning our role as consumers, where we passively acquire things that make life more convenient, without grasping the consequences of these purchases on wealth distribution, inequality, self-sufficiency, personal fulfillment, freedom, and the environment, we abandon the comforts we have grown accustomed to and taken for granted. This ‘giving up’ is the focal point of the current discourse surrounding the numerous crises we confront. It’s all about what we stand to lose, However, these other modes reveal the potential gains; experiences that are genuine, meaningful, and deeply rewarding, fostering connections and authenticity.
As you shift away, with each step you get a better sense of true cost, connection to others and nature. You start living a more natural life, with the seasons, natural rhythms, within a sustainable footprint, enjoying the simple meaningful connections, gentle activities, human scale experiences, problems and challenges you can deal with.
Specialist Mode: Rebuilding local economies and meaningful specializations is at the heart of this mode. It involves moving away from unsatisfying jobs and revaluing essential skills, pride, and satisfaction.
Maker Mode: Here, we restore home economies and craftsmanship. We tap into our innate ability to create, appreciating handmade goods and self-sufficiency. The act of making connects us deeply with what we create.
Commoner Mode: In this mode, we embark on the journey of restoring ecology through reciprocal relationships with nature. We become stewards of the Earth, actively contributing to ecological restoration.
Specialist Mode
In the Specialist Mode, we dive deep into the practice of rebuilding local economies and meaningful specializations. By honing essential skills and contributing to our communities, we find satisfaction and pride in our roles. As we transition into this mode, we free ourselves from the confines of unsatisfying jobs and rediscover the value of hands-on, purposeful work.
Rediscovering Pride in Specializations: In the world of specialists, every skill is valued. From traditional crafts to modern-day expertise, we recognize the significance of each specialization in contributing to the well-being of our communities.
Local Economies for Sustainable Growth: By redirecting our efforts towards local industries and economies, we create a resilient foundation. This shift not only fosters self-sufficiency but also reduces our reliance on globalized, resource-intensive systems.
Empowering Communities through Expertise: As specialists, we play pivotal roles in our communities. We become the go-to individuals for essential services, building stronger connections and fostering a sense of pride in our contributions.
Maker Mode
In the Maker Mode, we embark on the journey of restoring home economies and craftsmanship. This mode celebrates the joy of creating and cherishing what we make. By reconnecting with the act of crafting, we gain a deeper appreciation for handmade goods and self-sufficiency.
The Joy of Creation: Creating something with our own hands is an inherently fulfilling experience. It reconnects us with the essence of craftsmanship, allowing us to take pride in our creations.
Cherishing the Handmade: Handmade goods carry a unique energy and authenticity. By valuing what we make, we break free from the cycle of disposable consumerism and cultivate a deeper appreciation for craftsmanship.
Self-Sufficiency and Autonomy: Through making, we become less reliant on global supply chains and industrial processes. We reclaim a level of autonomy over our lives, knowing that we can create what we need.
Commoner Mode
In the Commoner Mode, we embark on a journey of restoring ecology through reciprocal relationships with nature. This mode invites us to become stewards of the Earth, actively contributing to ecological restoration. By engaging in practices that give back to the environment, we foster a deep sense of connection and responsibility.
Reciprocity with Nature: In the commoner mode, we recognize that our well-being is intertwined with the health of the Earth. We engage in practices that restore and regenerate the natural world, creating a cycle of reciprocity.
Stewardship and Responsibility: As commoners, we take on the role of stewards, actively caring for the land, water, and air. This sense of responsibility guides our actions, ensuring that we leave a positive impact on the environment.
Fostering Ecological Restoration: Through our efforts, we contribute to the restoration of ecosystems. Whether through reforestation, regenerative agriculture, or other practices, we play a vital role in healing the Earth.
5.3 Navigating the Shift:
As we consider these alternative modes, it's essential to remember that they are not mutually exclusive. Instead, they offer a spectrum of possibilities, inviting us to explore and adapt based on our unique circumstances and values. The transition is not about immediate, drastic change, but rather a gradual, intentional shift towards modes that resonate with our innate connection to the natural world.
Rediscovering our Connection: In embracing these modes, we rediscover our innate connection to the natural world. We move away from a consumer-centric existence and towards a way of life that honors reciprocity, sustainability, and well-being.
The Power of Small Steps: The journey towards embracing alternative modes is not about overnight transformation. It's about taking small, intentional steps towards modes that align with our values and aspirations.
A Spectrum of Possibilities: These modes offer a spectrum of possibilities, allowing us to find a balance that works for us. Whether we gravitate towards one mode or explore a combination, the key is to embark on this journey with open hearts and minds.
Creating a Sustainable Mix:
Ultimately, the path forward involves a thoughtful blend of these modes, creating a sustainable mix that prioritizes the well-being of all. By reimagining how we live, work, and interact with the environment, we pave the way towards a more balanced, meaningful existence.
Empowering Change: Whether as individuals, businesses, or governments, we all hold the power to enact change. By embracing alternative modes, we contribute to a collective shift towards a more sustainable future.
