Subject: [permaculture] Considering Wholeness (was Re: Politics-Is it relevent to Permaculture?)
Date: Wed, 13 Jun 2007 09:08:00 -0500
Yes, permacultural design principles apply to politics. What don't
they apply to? I know many permaculturalists have strong notions
about politics, what doesn't work about current policies, how we
might have better policies. Looking at patterns and applying
systems thinking to these things can reveal many ways to leverage
change in our existing systems.
I also recognize that political discussion can divide people. It can
degenerate into a series of long tirades and flame wars. I have
participated in enough discussions of this nature to have a good idea
of the patterns that can emerge when members of a list not devoted
specifically to political discussion start posting about politics.
Ken brings up the importance of keeping the whole in mind, the bigger
picture. Would all who have participated in these recent discussions
take a step back for a moment and look at the whole of this group and
what might serve it best? Some of this lists members have said these
discussions have not met their needs and that they would rather not
have them on this list. That signals the beginning of a destructive
pattern that I would rather not see develop any further. Will you
please consider how you can change your communication so that it
brings us together rather than divides us on the list?
I also know from experience that discussion about whether something
is or is not something can divide a list as well. Like whether
politics *is* an appropriate conversation for this list or whether it
*is* relevant to permaculture. Let's not go there either. That
thinking will not bring us together as a whole.
Would those who have spoken about their frustration with these topics
also take a step back for a moment and consider the whole? Rather
than communicating your opinion about what is, can you state more
clearly what you need and how the conversation could shift to better
meet those needs?
I come here for insight into applying permacultural design. It helps
if what you have to share leads to something practical, something I
can apply within permacultural zones closer to home. I have the most
influence in those areas. If you want to share a big picture
insight, I would like you to also try to share the practical
application of that insight in daily life.
-Stephen
Re: [permaculture] Ron Paul for president of the UnitedStatesofAmerica
, (continued)