July 2011 - P2P-Foundation - lists.ourproject.org

[P2P-F] 26-propositions-on-networking-labour-and-solidarity-underagainstbeyond-a-globalised-and-informatised-capitalism
by Michel Bauwens 27 Jul '11

27 Jul '11

http://snuproject.wordpress.com/2011/02/28/26-propositions-on-networking-la… hi Orsan, can you also republish this on the p2p blog (post=dated august 5 or after), in case of problems, chris can help, or james can give you access? Michel -- P2P Foundation: http://p2pfoundation.net - http://blog.p2pfoundation.net Connect: http://p2pfoundation.ning.com; Discuss: http://lists.ourproject.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/p2p-foundation Updates: http://del.icio.us/mbauwens; http://friendfeed.com/mbauwens; http://twitter.com/mbauwens; http://www.facebook.com/mbauwens

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Towards Psychic, and Spiritual Science?
by robert searle 27 Jul '11

27 Jul '11

Multi-Dimensional Science From P2P Foundation Jump to: navigation, search The subject matter of this p2pfoundation entry deals with a new paradigm known as Multi-Dimensional Science, and is concerned with claimed psychic, and spiritual phenomena. Any reader here who has, or is able to experience a range of "energies" notably seeing auras, subtle bodies, inner mystical sounds, and lights, et cetera would be welcomed if they contact me personally. I am seeking attempted descriptions of such "phenomena". Much of this data will probably come from various healing "fraternities" such as Reiki. It is suspected that the best approach to the above is probably via direct phone contact rather than a simple public notice such as this.In spite of this, it is hoped that this public notice will elicit some response. Furthermore, I am also on the lookout for anyone who may be willing to divulge contacts in connection with little known esoteric societies in Sufism, Hinduism, Judaism, Paganism, or any other tradition. Cooperation in all this would be gratefully acknowledged. Inner mystical experiences via meditation are strictly speaking meant to be kept "secret," and the reasons for this can be various. Certain key ones appear in my Kheper essay.However, it should be stressed here that meditation followers of some esoteric society can be willing to put something of their experiences on the record, and the strictures in connection with non-disclosure maybe "non-existent" in certain cases. http://thoughtsandvisions-searle88.blogspot.com/2010/09/esoteric-secrecy.ht… Anyway, my contact details are dharao4(a)yahoo.co.uk, or more rarely I use the following email address of robertsearle(a)live.co.uk (or via Facebook where I have a site) All communications will be treated in strictest confidence. Thank you, Robert Searle. Some bio-data http://thoughtsandvisions-searle88.blogspot.com/2010/08/introduction-to-blo… Basic Introduction to Multi-Dimensional Science Multi-Dimensional Science, or MDS represents a revolutionary approach towards a more objective understanding of claimed psychic, and spiritual phenomena.The ideas notably appeared on the kheper website run by Alan Kazlev, an authority on all things "esoteric". The link is as follows. [1] The "Science" word in MDS is ofcourse used in an entirely provisional sense.The subject can thus be known as the Multi-Dimensional Hypothesis,or MDH. This is arguably a more accurate term. At present, it is purely at the "pseudo-scientific" stage of evolution. The words "Multi-Dimensional" have been criticized but in this context it clearly implies claimed psychic, and spiritual dimensions, or worlds variously called spheres, planes of existence, higher realms, et al. They could be seen as being akin to a certain extent with "scientific" concepts of anti-matter worlds,parallel universes, the multi-verse, and ofcourse the fourth (or the fifth, sixth, or more) dimension(s). Important to Understand, and Appreciate. Most of all that follows is highly speculative, and theoretical. Unfortunately, this is unavoidable due the nature of the subject in hand. Understandably, many mainstream scientists would regard MDS as nonsense, and too New Agey to have any credence. A few may be able to take it more seriously. Many of the things said here may come across a little dogmatic but this is not intentional. But, it is not always easy to describe "concepts" such as these in neutral terms. Anyhow, let us try if possible to proceed with an open-mind. The Aim of the Multi-Dimensional Paradigm. The basic aim of Multi-Dimensional Science, or MDS is to prove albeit indirectly the existence of so-called non-physical psychic/spiritual energies, and the claimed realities in which they are said to exist. If possible, and if it can be done within the context of a new version of the scientific method it would probably have untold benefits for physics,biology,psychology,psychiatry, parapsychology,et al. This in itself is a huge subject...infinite like the universe, and with infinite implications for humanity. Most of what follows is essentially theoretical as already indicated, and would require in the goodness of time to be "proved" as far as possible via research, and experimentation. The Basic Methodology of MDS There are five methodological steps in the process of "objectifying" the claimed "subjective" encounters of the unseen psycho-spiritual universe. Since what we are discussing are claimed to be non-physical energies it should be obvious that we cannot use normal "scientific" protocol as they are physically undetectable in the main unless they temporarily "materialize" within the electro-magnetic spectrum of the physical universe. Anyway, the methods of research, and ultimately experimentation, are as follows. i) Finding MDOs, or Multi-Dimensional Observers would be necessary, and a special directory could be created. These are specific psychics, and mystics who claim to have inner experiences of a range of non-physical phenomena. They would notably include the manifestations of claimed ethereal sounds,and lights. They may among other things be able to view the so-called subtle body, auras,discarnate entities, symbolic imagery, et cetera. Such data would in Western Philosophy be regarded as a form of phenomenology a concept notably offered by Edmund Husserl. Ofcourse,it should be added that people could be trained to become "reliable" MDOs via some form of meditation/out-of-the body "technology," or "technologies". ii) A simple questionaire would probably be used first to ask MDOs what they experience. A detailed one would follow. The aim of this is to see how many obscure pieces of data are independently corroborated beyond the laws of mathematical chance. In other words, we have as it were "objective" non-physical phenomena which may not be the product of subjective imagination of the MDO. iii) Such attempted descriptions of "higher worlds", and their "higher energies" are translated from words into images. This could ofcourse appear on a computer. iv) Mathematical models,and theories could then be created. v) On the basis of step iv experiments could be undertaken to see how reliable, and objective the initial data really is. If all things go to plan we would have an approach in which we could understand on a more scientific basis the actual workings of claimed psycho-spiritual energies in both man, and the universe. This would be a huge step forward, and would have profound implications for the arts, and the sciences. Multi-Dimensional Science represents the Complete System. The idea of trying to marry science with esoteric mysticism, and religion is in itself nothing new. However, Goethean "Science", and Rudolf Steiner with his "super-sensible" perceptions held such notions.But what is so unique with MDS is that we have for the first time the Complete System to achieve it.This could well be a big step forward... Anyway, the idea of using mathematics to describe "higher worlds" is nothing new (eg. Jewish Mysticism).The notion of trying to turn unseen realities, and energies into pictures is likewise (eg. Charles Leadbeater, and his famous images of the subtle bodies, and their auras). Similiarly, questionaires have been used to find out what people encounter during out-of-body experiences, or OOBEs, and so-called religious (or rather mystical) experiences have been undertaken by a number of individuals, and organizations (eg. the Sir Alistair Hardys Religious Experience Research Centre).This again is nothing new.Also,the use of psychics to try, and discover "secret knowledge"(eg. Besant, and Leadbeater in their clairvoyant reseaches into chemistry)and so-called "occult powers" is once again nothing new (eg. Reichenbach, and the Odic Force). What is new, and actually revolutionary is that MDS ofcourse tries to bring together the four above approaches into one complete system. Professor Tarts State-Specific Science,or S-SS comes close to it, but does not go far enough, and is hence,incomplete. Some people would argue that Quantum Physics is enough to explain paranormal phenomena. This ofcourse is incorrect because "mainstream" parapsychology is incomplete without MDS.The latter is the "missing link" in the theoretical side of the former..and may someday be taken more seriously. Describing the "Indescribable"? Many psychics (concerned mainly with psychic unfoldment), and mystics (concerned with spiritual/Self unfoldment) have at times found it difficult to put into words their inner experiences of "higher worlds". Quite often they may resort to using symbolism of one form, or another. This is notably true of genuine mystic meditators of some esoteric tradition. It would appear that those following a bona fide mystical path involving entrance into higher planes of conciousness, or Altered States of Conciousness (or ASCs) claim that the power to describe things accurately, and clearly "progressively" diminishes. However, whatever can be recorded could still have scientific validity. Much relies on the literal, and/or symbolic descriptive powers of the MDOs (irrespective of whether they are psychics, or mystic meditators) concerned. Yet,inevitably there will be "things" which can never be described at all. These would be indicated via the questionaires, (which can incidently become more elaborate after the initial questions) and ultimately via the mathematical models. Interfacing with the Physical,and Non-Physical If MDOs can collectively produce reliable data about the energies in, or around physical objects, and people it would be possible to measure them scientifically using physical instruments. For example, a microscope could be used to examine in detail certain materials, and tested.Reliable MDOs should in theory be able to largely come up with the same data concerning their non-physical psychic structure, and eneriges. In another example, person may be able to produce claimed psychic rays from his, or her body. This could be accurately measured using some kind of physical instrument(s) with the help of what MDOs see, and may hear psychically in non-physical dimensions (ie.clairaudience). A similiar process to the above could be had in which physical objects do not exist. In other words, research, and experimentation in the "other world".Thus, wholly non-physical "measurements" and other "quantifiable" findings could be recorded to a limited extent. Another problem which would probably be met with is this. Groups of MDOs may describe the same "energies" differently irrespective of whether they are focussed on something physical, or not. This suggests that they may see the supersensory "energies" of the same physical, or non-physical object(s), or person(s) at different levels of conciousness in different planes/sub-planes. Hence, the variations in the appearances of such "energies" maybe different. In certain cases they may be purely, or partly illusionary self-projections. What we are also indicating here is that the science of the future will become increasingly more humanized, and less objective in the normal scientific sense. By "humanized" we are implying ofcourse that tested MDOs, or "special" people would become more, and more a part of the experimental process gradually unlocking the secrets of the physical, and non-physical universe. Again, it should be re-iterated that MDS offers for the first time the Complete System to achieve this. A Note. It should perhaps be added that there is belief largely founded, or unfounded that these subtle psychic energies may also exist as a) the finest forms of energy existing to a certain extent in the physical universe either temporarily, or permanently, and b) that they could be detectable to some degree with certain kinds of physical instruments. This in itself is a big subject, and one is reminded here of the work of the physicist William Tiller, and the independent researcher Harry Oldfield, and the controversial claims of Kirlian Photography. However, it should be noted that MDS tends in the main to go beyond this "limited" approach because it believes that it may be dealing with higher non-physical energies (ie undetectable altogether by normal means), and hence, this knowledge would arguably have greater psychic, and spiritual benefits than dealing with low level energies that may be detectable, or become detectable, or "materialized" in the material world. Basic Theoretical Concepts of Higher Worlds, and Higher Energies Many mystical, and psychic writings claim that there are a series of higher worlds, and hence, higher energies in the non-physical Universe. Such psychic/spiritual cosmologies have often been illustrated as a set of seven or more lines either in concentric, or linear forms. They are on occassions sub-divided into smaller worlds, or sub-planes (of a plane). On occasion they are shown concentrically around our planet earth, and extent ultimately into infinity. There are a number of hermetic/alchemical texts which notably illustrate higher planes of existence as being concentric. Certain Buddhist depictions of the "after-life" realms indicate a linear, or concentric set of worlds, or planes. In the Alice Bailey Teachings there is a scheme of spiritual cosmology in which there is in each plane a division of seven sub-planes.The reality of the situation is probably that there are an infinite number of planes, and sub-planes, and their number tends to vary from one esoteric, and/or mythological source to another. It is said that as one ascends from one higher reality to another it becomes increasingly brighter, and there is growing expansion of super-conciousness, or mystical experience. Moreover, the energies of each succeeding plane, and indeed, each sub-plane become increasingly subtle. The content of such visionary ascents can as one progresses "upwards" become more difficult, or impossible at times to describe in the language of this world. In relation to our physical world of the five limited senses, such realms could arguably exist as energies having a vibratory rate faster than the speed of light. Thus, ofcourse, they would transcend time, and space as we would understand it. Moreover, it is also believed that they may exist, and interact in other ways conceivable, and inconceivable in relation to our visible world. The "Highest Truth", and "Objectivity"? One advanced understanding of these other planes,or dimensions of Being are to be found in Sant Mat as propounded notably by the Radhasoami Faith. It claims among other things that most religions, and mystical sects reach only the lower worlds mistaking them to be the highest where true "God-Realization" or "salvation" occurs from reincarnation. Through meditation known as Surat Shabd Yoga the aspirant can "die while living" and gain contact to the higher worlds via the propulsion power of inner Light, and inner Sound. At the same time, the Radiant Form of the living Master acts as the inner Guide. The point of all this is that the spiritual cosmology as revealed in Sant Mat (notably in the writings of Prof Puri published by Radha Soami Satsang Beas) give not only the claimed major Sounds, and Lights of each of the higher worlds, or planes but also their key "symbolic" sights. Thus, we have in effect an actual "road-map" to "salvation",or "God-Realization". However, as with most forms of mysticism whether they be of Hindu, Buddhist, Sufi, or whatever origin knowledge concerning the inner experiences of ones meditation are kept private as they are not of this world, and cannot at times be accurately described.In other words, they are for the awakening intuition, and not for the limited mind... In spite of this from the MDS perspective they would still have some scientific value if the practioner is willing to disclose his, or her inner experiences for comparative analysis via questionaires. It is known however that the initial experiences of Shabd Yoga compared with "lesser" systems are independently corroborative, and hence, indicate their "objective" character. To complicate matters further, there are those mystics from both East, and West who would perhaps argue that there are no set sequences of Lights, and Sounds, or in indeed, key sights on the way "up" to the "highest" plane. These may even be regarded as being largely, or wholly the projections of the mind! Whether this is true, or false is essentially an open question which will probably never be solved by natural means, or ofcourse by MDS itself. It is likely that the "other world" exists in an infinite number of ways conceivable, and/or largely inconceivable. More importantly, mysticism both East, and West would probably argue that direct personal experience proves that higher worlds exist(irrespective of whether they have a set "road-map" to "God", or not) via some form of meditation and is thus far more important than the kind of possible studies, and experiments of MDS. This is probably true but peoples minds are becoming increasingly complicated, and they are not so easily satisfied by such a "simplistic" approach. Thus, MDS has it own role to play in the scheme of things. But it can never really substitute direct inner experience. Subtle Bodies, or Vehicles of Conciousness A key feature in occult, or esoteric lore is the concept of subtle bodies (which also appears in the Radhasoami Faith). Here we need to imagine the possibility of the human being consisting of a set of subtle bodies simultaneously existing in a number of planes of existence but "working" all together to a certain extent as if they were one. It should also be said here that these forms have special centres, or what in the East are referred to as chakras which can be translated as "wheels" which are to a degree replicated in the higher bodies. These involve the transmissions of psychological energies in the literal sense existing in the subconcious, and unconcious parts of the human psyche. They manifest as inner subtle lights, and sounds, and have direct connections to various planes, and sub-planes. Anyway, to return to the subtle bodies per se. The first of them traditionally is the etheric (or "health")body existing in the etheric world. Then there is the so-called astral, or emotional body inhabiting the plane of emotions. Next the mental body which inhabits the mental plane. Then, the the higher mental body which ofcourse exists in the higher mental plane. Finally, there is the Soul "Body" which is who, or what we really are but is largely controlled by the lower emotional, and mental body. Meditation, and the Chandian Effect. Meditation of one sort, or another, and pure living is the means by which people can let the Light of the Soul shine through them more, and more, and gain greater mastery over the lower subtle bodies, or "forces" of the human being. The Soul is said to be a part of God, or the Absolute Reality, and is sometimes referred to as our God-Self or Higher Self which can manifest Itself independently of the lower self, and can act as a Spiritual Guide, or manifest It-Self as the Ishta Dev (or Chosen Ideal such as Buddha, Christ, or some Guru etc) in the inner journey during meditation, or after death. This sometimes referred to Atma-Lila, or the Play of Self. A respected mystic of Shabd Yoga called Faqir Chand claimed that though he was meant to be the physical "omniscient" manifestation of God he was unaware of his disciples experiences concerning their contact notably of his Radiant Form during meditation, or in some "outer," and/or inner miraculous happening.In Sant Mat this would have arguably implied that he was an "imperfect" master but he found that others like himself were also seemingly unaware of their disciples inner experiences. He came to conclusion that it was the FAITH, AND BELIEF of the followers enabled them to have the inner, and outer phenomena connected with him. Essentially,Chand claimed that the inner Radiant Form was actually the manifestation of the disciples Higher Self taking on the appearance of their Master (ie. Chand as the Ishta Dev, or Chosen Ideal). The implications of this are remakable because it also implies that a "criminal" teacher, or guru could also do the same thing. Yet, the disciple would still benefit spiritually...... All this seems to indicate that powerful "subjective" dynamics are involved which are to varying degree projected (from a lower, or higher part of ones self, or selves, or indeed, ones Higher Self in the case of the so-called Chandian Effect described)into an "objective" psycho-spiritual universe. This is notably true in spiritualist literature in which the "dead" conciously, or unconciously create their surrounding world to some extent with their "thought-energy." This factor has always to be taken into account into the "objective" investigations into psychic, and spiritual phenomomena using MDOs. The Association for Multi-Dimensional Science. MDS is not just concerned about mysticism but also parapsychology, or psychical research as it used to be commonly called. It may be that with the aid of MDOs we would be able to understand, and even improve the development of a whole range of alleged psychic powers such as telepathy, psychokinesis, astral travel, precognition, clairvoyance, et al. Such "pseudo-scientific" subjects are slowly becoming to be taken more seriously through the long march of human intellectual, and scientific evolution. However, most forms of mysticism per se sees these so-called powers, or siddhis (to use the Sanskrit term) as largely being unimportant, and possibly an obstacle from the direct path of "God-Realization", or "salvation," or "ultimate enligtenment". Anyway, what is needed in the future is an Association for Multi-Dimensional Science,or AMS as explained in the kheper essay (edited version) on the subject.. "...It (ie AMS)would have the following basic aims:- It would continue to search out willing MDOs for possible studies, and experiments (mainly drawn probably from the psychic healing groups). It would try to build an ever-expanding directory of Buddhist, Hindu, Sikh, Judaic, Shinto, Sufi, and other mystical sects. This in itself would require detective work as most of them do not advertize themselves. This would involve i) contacting scholars, and writers ii) the internet iii) interfaith organisations iv) charity registers v) esoteric magazines vi) existing directories....and so on. The need for on-going research, and development into a general theory, or working hypothesis of the Unseen Universe would be necessary. This would involve ideas from Theosophy, the Alice Bailey Teachings, Spiritualism, Maharishis Vedic Science, and Technology, Pearsons Survival Physics, Bohms Implicate Order,and the like. As well as this concepts from "mainstream" science would have to be included such as Quantum Mechanics (often used by some scientists, and others as adding credence to the possibility of psychic powers), the Multi-verse, the Fourth Dimension, Tachyons, et al. Finally, it must be remembered that the proposed Multi-Dimensional Science probably cannot give totally "provable" answers as to what the ultimate nature and purpose of Truth is really all about. It is quite possible that there are no absolute truths, and that the universe is itself infinite. Science can only go so far, and at the end of the day it is arguably our own personal experience that really matters. Finally, MDS is a huge subject, and what has been presented cannot do it true justice. There are many many aspects to it...." Feedback is always welcome. Further editing may be needed, and new data may be added. Retrieved from "http://p2pfoundation.net/Multi-Dimensional_Science" Category: Science Personal tools Log in / create account Namespaces Page Discussion Variants Views Read View source View history Actions Search p2pfoundation Wiki Main Page Wiki community Blog del.icio.us Navigation Recent changes Random page Help Donations var gaJsHost = (("https:" == document.location.protocol) ? "https://ssl." : "http://www."); document.write(unescape("%3Cscript src='" + gaJsHost + "google-analytics.com/ga.js' type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E")); try { var pageTracker = _gat._getTracker("UA-184755-12"); pageTracker._trackPageview(); } catch(err) {} Toolbox What links here Related changes Special pages Printable version Permanent link Share this content var addthis_pub="guaka"; This page was last modified on 1 July 2011, at 10:58. This page has been accessed 5,848 times.

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The Economics of the Future?
by robert searle 27 Jul '11

27 Jul '11

The following maybe of interest. ref http://www.p2pfoundation.net/Transfinancial_Economics Introduction. Essentially, TFE is a "work in progress" project but its key features will probably remain unaltered. However, the "full" details of it would ultimately require forward thinking experts in business, economics, the law, computer science,and the like. Please note that the "paper" is being re-edited, and will appear soon on the front page of this p2pfoundation entry. What follows should give one a good clear idea of the basics... The Aim, and Purpose of Transfinancial Economics. Transfinancial Economics is a major global paradigm which believes that progress towards a fairer, and better world could be greatly facilitated by a reformed financial system. As such, it champions the cause for a non-debt based economy in which taxes, and indeed, interest on loans could overtime be phased out altogether. It claims too that non-repayable debt-free money (ie.new unearned money) could be used where necessary with interest free loans. The former would not lead to serious inflation as too much of it would not be created. This notion is like Quantitative Easing, or QE. Such innovative funding, or Facilitation Finance created by Facilitation Banks, or FBs would essentially be targetted at "major" environmental/climate change projects, and socio-economic initiatives where notably the initial capital is difficult, or even "impossible" to raise via conventional methods (eg. venture capitalism notably). Moreover, with the phasing in of what maybe termed advanced Transfinancial Economics it would be possible to get a highly accurate electronic profile of the entire economy. Since this would be so, it would also give future economists a very accurate understanding of how much new non-repayable debt-free money could be created without serious inflation by FBs, and indeed,by democratic governments which could phase out taxation overtime. Among other things already mentioned such innovative funding could in part, or in full fund in time charitable ngos.The social, economic, and political implications of this would be immense. It could infact lead to an advanced automated technocratic world in which money, and wage slavery would no longer be necessary.All this could occur in the context of open democracy, and respect for universal human rights. Also, it should be noted that TFE believes that success in the introduction of this reform would probably come about by working pragmatically with banks, and corporations rather than otherwise. It is important to understand that we are not discussing a soviet style command/planned economy but one in which a more responsible form of capitalism could be developed with the right financial incentives, and the right marketing strategies. Present Day Economics. Mainstream economics has developed a somewhat appalling reputation as the dismal science. Most of its work appears to be largely theoretical, and based on questionable statistics, and mathematical modeling. Its economic forecasts often, or not turn out to be wrong. Moreover there is still an obsession with the need for more, and more unsustainable growth even though the planet has limited resources. The so-called Neo-Classical Economists still have great influence over the economic profession. Many of them believe in the free market in which little, or virtually no regulation is needed, as capitalism appears at large to do well by being largely unimpeded. Yet, the so-called Efficient Market Hypothesis received a battering with the Great Financial Crisis (GFC) starting around 2008(and seemingly continuing at the time of writing with the Euro Crisis notably) in which the entire global banking system nearly collapsed but was saved by massive bailouts. Many commentators point out that this was largely due to a lack of real regulation of banks. Transfinancial Economics, or TFE itself is a form Heterodox Economics which deals with mainly non-mainstream economic thinking. At the time of writing (May 2011) many governments notably in the Eurozone have resorted to varying degrees of austerity rather than the Post-Keynesian Economics in which governments spend their way out of recession (due to the GFC). TFE believes in some form of the latter as a means of creating new jobs,thus, reducing unemployment. The Creation of Money. In TFE, money is recognized as being digital, or electronic data which can be transmitted from one bank account to another at the flick of a button. Virtually all of it is created out of thin air by banks via Credit Creation, or Fractional Reserve Banking (to use the old term) as a repayayable loan with interest charged on it. The amounts they can issue are limited by reserves held. On the other hand, Governments create a near non-existent portion of the entire money supply as paper, and coins.Unlike loans this is spent into the economy as something non-repayable, and debt-free.. There are some radical monetary reform groups (eg. Positive Money, and the American Monetary Institute)which believe that banks should not have the power to create money ex nihilo. Most of them believe that there should be 100% reserve banking. In other words, they only lend out what they actually have! It should be pointed out that creating new money ex nihilo as loans can ofcourse become inflationary. Some radical monetary reformers also believe (like the Muslims) that it should be free of interest, or usury. Others though claim that it should still exist, and could either go to private banks, or to the government. A number of reformers dislike the idea of banks being nationalized, and believe they should remain in the private sector. It is also claimed that new non-repayable debt free money could be created by government, and this could reduce taxation. As the evidence seems to indicate if enough of it is produced it would not lead to serious inflation. In TFE, Credit Creation it would probably still exist. This is at odds with virtually all radical monetary reform proposals. Apart from the above radical monetary reforms there are made up free local community currencies which strictly speaking are meant to be tax free, and interest free. These have obvious limitations but they are easily set up, and are workable. TFE is also regarded by many as being very similiar to Social Credit founded by Clifford Douglas. Indeed, it could be argued that the former is a modernization of the latter. The Problem of Redistribution. There is probably more than enough money to change the world. The problem is gaining access to it especially where there is a genuine social, economic, or environmental issue at stake that may have been overlooked, or ignored. Apparently, most of the money of the world exists in financial trading, or "betting casinos" of the world. Indeed, the sum total of it maybe several times greater than the entire Gross Domestic Product(GDP) of the planet! Some activist groups have suggested the implementation of the Tobin Tax on currency speculation in particular to raise funds notably for environmental concerns of the real productive economy. Ofcourse, nothing has seriously come of it.In TFE such an approach at "redistribution" in this context is ultimately seen as unnecessary. Redistribution of financial wealth using taxation is fine, and ethical as far as it goes. But the problems facing humanity such as food security, climate change, population growth, and the like are colossal. To try, and solve this via earned money alone through taxation, and business investment will probably become increasingly difficult. Hence, the need for TFE to speed up, and facilitate change using in full, or in part newly created non-repayable money. If enough is created electronically notably for governments, and ngos it would not ofcourse be seriously inflationary. This has been mentioned before....and capacity should also be ideally be taken into account. This is explained later. The Emergence of Facilitation Banks. The introduction of Facilitation Banks, or FBs is a crucial start towards full implementation of TFE. They can be seen as "superbanks", or as prototypes of future banks, and banking. They could become a part of the mainstream banking system but they have far tighter regulatory framework to operate in. Essentially, FBs would have powers to electronically create closely monitored new non-repayable debt-free money (ie. Facilitation Finance ) as well as repayable interest free loans if necessary. The interest on loans does not have to come from the customer but instead be electronically created by the Central Bank, or by some indpendent authority. Something similiar could happen with the debt-free capital. In other words, an operating cost ideally, or alternatively "grant interest". The basic aim, and purpose of such FBs is to create funds for projects which would be difficult if not "impossible" to finance by convetional means as indicated earlier on. Their remit though is targetted at solely investing in large, or small-scale concerns to do with energy alternatives, enviromnetal projects as well as social/ethical entrepreneurship.The decision making process on all this must be independent of the FBs.It must notably be transparent, holistic and "objective" as possible with all options for consideration for some specific project, or projects that could be vital for the social, and environmental "health" of the planet. In the main this would require bona fide experts in their respective fields. It could involve partnerships with governments, ngos, and existing green businesses. Ofcourse, when ready, investors using their own earned money could invest in some project in order to gain a return. Indeed, their assets could be financially protected by the FB should the economy of any country face any serious problems, and hence, avoid capital flight. A startling feature of FBs is that in theory at least it could electronically create infinite sums of capital as they are not legally constrained by reserves held unlike Credit Creation. However, their financial dealings are continually tracked electronically to prevent fraud by the Central Bank, or by some other credible body which could impose instant fines electronically. Anyway, the amount of money which FBs can create is dependent on the costing of relevant resources, or products from suppliers in a binding contract. This is known as Resource Capacity Requirements, or RCRs. Essentially, it means that the amount of goods needed to be manufactured for some commercial project would need to be planned in advance. As far as possible possible checks on the relevant suppliers as to whether they have capacity to produce such resources needs to be undertaken ideally. Capacity could be increased if necessary by the FB. In the "normal" economy, money as loans with interest are invested in any number of businesses. If too much capital is created ofcourse suppliers for some commercial enterprise may not always be able to fulfill orders on time. They may experience over-demand, and hence, raise their prices which can in turn lead to a degree of serious inflation. With RCR, money as Facilitation Finance is created notably as non-repayable grants but take full account of whether the suppliers have enough capacity to meet demand. Thus, inflationary problems are largely avoided. Such a method of financing is very much like Advance Market Committment, or AMC. With the aid of experts it is hoped that Facilitation Banks, and indeed, Facilitation Finance in the context of TFE will become a serious proposition. This innovative financial model would certainly be more advanced than anything created by such controversial global institutions as the World Bank, and the International Monetary Fund. Indeed, FBs would not lead to competition with "normal" mainstream banks as they could possibly have equal shares in the FBs, or some other arrangement(s). Understandably, some ngos may regard them with suspicion but hopefully this will be dispelled if everything goes to plan successfully. Critics will probably point out that elected governments alone should have the power to create Facilitation Finance as new non-repayable debt-free money rather than mainly private companies (though they could be part owned by the state if desired). The reason for this approach is that it is hard to see that a country like the US which is still a world economic power (at the time of writing) would frown on the idea of greater government interventionism in the so-called Free Market Economy. Thus, something like FBs maybe be more acceptable, and their influence towards a more environmentally, and ethically centred business developments would be more agreeable. Rather than more, and more regulation (which ofcourse could be difficult to pass into law by many countries notably America) they would be able to "nudge" commercial enterprises as never before to reform themselves using financial incentives (ie. commercial grants, and interest free loans). Ofcourse, quite a number of businesses to a limited degree try to appear green to their customers as they see this as a good selling point. Some business leaders would claim that using normal market strategies rather than resorting to "subsidy" like incentives should be possible. However, TFE takes a different position. Democratic Governments, and Taxation. In TFE, taxation could be phased out overtime. In other words, earned money from the people would be gradually reduced in terms of tax liability as new debt-free money is phased in. In other words, Facilitation Finance by democratic governments.This would not lead to serious inflation especially when a system of electronic monitoring of transactions is undertaken. This is explained a little later. Moreover, as with FBs ofcourse the Resource Capacity Requirments, or RCRs are used in debt-free money creation. This could be carried out by a body independent of the Treasury, and would be electronically monitored to avoid any chance of serious deficit spending. At the present time democratic governments cannot legally create money electronically. If there are shortfalls in tax revenus they can issue bonds. These are IOUs mainly sold to the rich, and super rich companies, and corporations in which money is lent to governments. When paid back by governments the bonds also carry interest which act as profit for lenders in the private sector. In other words, a good example of debt-based economics. Anyway, the global bond market is huge.With TFE it could be gradually phased out. Investors could receive compensation, or alternatively other kinds of financial instruments, or investments could be found. These could be far more lucrative. Lastly, the so-called sovereign wealth funds of governments investing in the markets to raise money would probably be banned, or limited. The reason being that they would be unnecessary as the body of elected representatives would have electronically monitored money to fund the public sector. But the bond market would still exist for the time being as indicated in the last paragraph. Furthermore, the so-called "casino" economy (eg.currency speculation, derivatives, et al)already mentioned would still exist in a more modified form possibly. Electronic Profile of the Entire Economy in Real-Time. Most products, and services in the business world have codes for ease of accounting. Small shops, and supermarkets often, or not have barcodes which are used at checkouts to electronically account for sales transactions of customers. This is known as the Electronic Point of Sales, or EPOS. This notably gives retailers an accurate understanding of the demand of certain barcoded products along with their identifications. Such a method could be used to create an electronic profile of the entire economy in real-time. Under new laws retailers would not only account for their sales but would also at the sametime transmit their information to a public, or semi-public Inflation Authority (which could be a part of the banking system). With modifications in barcodes, and business codes in general such transaction data (largely identified but not always) would be able to build up a highly accurate electronic GDP of the economy on a daily basis (ie.24/7). But why is this neccessary, and important? The answer is three-fold. i) To electronically monitor, and track, and compare price changes of specific sets of products, and services. If serious rises in prices occur they could be targetted by direct electronic controls rather than always using indirect controls of taxation, and interest on loans which would be phased out over time. This process would involve advanced computer programming, and the possible use of supercomputers by banks connected with the Inflation Authority. A more decentralised version of this could also exist. ii) To create a highly accurate electronic "audit" of resources used to make up products, or goods. This will become increasingly vital as scarcity increases. Such data would be good for democratic government planners, and for businesses. iii) To bring about a greater understanding of the mechanics of the economy itself. This maybe very useful for future economists. With computer simulations, and projections garnered directly from the real economy itself it would be possible to reasonably predict the inflation risks involved in the creation of new debt-free money for certain projects. It would also give us direct data of the capacity of various "small" companies, and corporations which would be essential for FBs,and democratic governments. This in turn would allow for a highly accurate basis on which new non-repayable money could be created electronically (ie. the RCR). Indeed, the origins of potential business cycles of boom, and bust could also be tracked, and resolved. However, all this cannot fully rule out uncertainty, and the irrational behaviour of the markets. But everthing could still work well in spite of this as TFE is a robust system of future economics. It is clear that existing Economic Indicators would be largely, if not wholly superseded by the new "electronic economy" proposed here. This is revolutionary. Finally, it is important to understand that ideally only those businesses which make serious efforts to be environmentally friendly, and ethical could receive a Zero Tax, and Zero Interest status. There would be no real excuse not to do this because money from FBs, or democrative governments would always be there.On the other hand, those enterprises which continue to use environmentally unsustainable technologies, and markets for the products, and services would continue to pay tax, and interest to a large extent. But the door would always be open for them to change. Ofcourse, Facilitation Finance would be phased in to replace taxation, and interest per se. Direct Electronic Controls If Necessary. It must be made very clear that direct electronic controls in the economy are used only if it is absolutely necessary. With the continous electronic monitoring of the Free Market Prices of the transaction of goods, and services the data which results is transmitted to the Inflation Authority where computers, probably supercomputers are programmed to check any inflationary problems. There are a number of things which the electronic controls could do when needed:- i) National Inflation Adjustment. This is when most if not the entire economy can have its money electronically adjusted instantaneously thus maintaining its purchasing power. ii) Automatic Inflation Rebate. When a price of a product being bought at a checkout is found to be above the inflation rate new money could be used to instantly adjust it to the "right" Free Market Price. This could be like a tax but the money taken at the point of sale is recreated electronically in the account of the retail company. In other words, it is temporarily taken out of general circulation where the inflationary pressures are being "felt." iii) Automatic Inflation Deduction. This is when a temporary "tax" is created at the point of sale in which the inflated portion is instantly taken off at the point of sale. It is the opposite of the Automatic Inflation Rebate which for obvious reasons would be more popular. iv) Instant Electronic Price Subsidization. This is when a price of a product maybe below the inflation rate, and an instant subsidy, or adjustment is created, and transmitted back by the Inflation Authority to the relevant checkout after a computer check. v) Electronic Price Capping. Here, a maximun price maybe set by a government, or even by an FB in certain circumstances. If the price of production starts to exceed the maximun price, the producers would recieve instant financial help, or compensation where necessary. Ofcourse, electronic price capping should be avoided if possible. The Question of Economic Growth. As many realize the planet has finite resources. Thus,continous exponential growth cannot go on indefinitely. In TFE there is a long period of rapid economic growth but it is heavily influenced by the notable power of FBs, and Facilitation Financing making the present capitalist system environmentally sustainable, more ethical, and energy efficient as never before in human history. There are those who believe in no-growth economics, or steady-state economics. Such notions are fine as far as they go but their approach towards genuine change is alot slower in a complicated world. Moreover, how finite is our planet? This is arguably at present an "impossible" question to fully answer. But, it has also been pointed out that most of the resources of our planet lie under the sea. To actually "mine them" is prohibitively expensive. With Facilitation Finance it would be possible. Apart from this there are all sorts of ways to deal with the resource question. They could include the following:- i) The development of safe nanotechnology which could create new resources out of thin air via the manipulation of atoms. ii) Space exploration with the aid of Facilitation Finance could find resources from other planets. These could be brought to our terrestrial world. iii) Again, with Facilitation Finance it would be possible to create colonies on other planets, and hopefully, use their resources responsibly. iv) Inventions could be developed to create more out of less, and less. Vertical Farming is perhaps a good example as it helps to increase land space for agriculture. Ideally though, people (especially the young) must become more, and more educated in that we must live simpler, less materialistic lives. This does not mean going back to the "stone age" but instead to an advanced technological world in which higher values, or ideals should take their place rather than over-consumption of worldly goods. Some Other Key Benefits of Transfinancial Economics. Apart from the above section there are many other benefits with TFE. They would include the following list. a) Poverty. With TFE, ngos concerned with this issue would become increasingly empowered financially by Facilitation Finance which could be had directly from a FB, or possibly a government agency. It could also come from one, or more independent funding body. Moreover, it could modify microfinance in the developing world to include a UBI, or Universal Basic Income, or subsidy of sorts without having to borrow money all the time (except for the development of some form of self-employment/business). It would be electronically created by FBs, or by governments, or by both of them in partnership. So-called "grant interest" could accrue too as explained early on. b) Health Care. Irrespective of whether health care is largely in private hands, or not there would be a stage at which Factilitation Financing could enhance the existing system in which everyone in spite of their economic status has access to high quality medical intervention.This process could happen in both the developed world, and the developing world. c) Food Security. Here, innovative but safe production of more food could be funded in full, or in part by Facilitation Finance. Moreover,like their developed world couterparts developing world farmers could receive subsidies but via new non-repayable money created electronically. d) Population. Ngos with ideas, and projects concerned with this matter could be funded in full, or in part by Facilitation Finance. e) Industrial Emissions. One way, other than Cap, and Trade to reduce industrial emissions is to have governments use Facilitation Finance (rather than earned money from taxes) as a way of compensating for lost profits in return for companies to reduce their emissions from entering the atmosphere. f) Ethical Business Takeover. This is a highly controversial concept in which certain industries might be regarded as unethical, and unsustainable in some way. They could be subject to an Ethical Takeover. This would probably require the pressure of ngos, the people, and governments to undertake such a measure with the aid of Facilitation Finance. g) Ethical Environmental/Social Intervention (Similiar to the Above Claim). When the FBs are first introduced into the world they could have powers to suspend with compensation any serious large-scale, or small-scale environmental commercial project which maybe causing controversy .Ideally, where such situations like this exists (eg. coal seam gas case in Australia) they should be dealt with legally. Unfortunately, there is no international environmental agency which has legally binding global regulations to prevent companies especially corporations from doing anything highly questionable. It is here that FBs may prove beneficial in the extreme in partnership with governments, and/or ngos. It should be said that TFE is not the panacea of all the problems of the world. But it can certainly help many of them. Automation, and the New World. During the transition from a debt based economic system to a non-debt one in which taxation, and interest are phased out many momentous socio-economic, and political changes would probably occur. One of them is the introduction of automation on a huge scale.This would lead to growing unemployment. However, since at the end of the day taxes would be phased out social security would ultimately be generated by Facilitation Finance. Something like a UBI, or Universal Basic Income could also be introduced irrespective of whether one is employed, or not. Social security benefits could "top it up." In the light of the above, other kinds of "leisure-like" forms of "work", or employment could come into being.Alternatively, for some, a green business could be created but with a degree of automation included. All this has great implications for ngos, or non-government organizations, or charitable npos, or non-profit organizations. They could expand, and be able to bring aboard new recruits as money would become easier to find, and fundraising itself would also be ultimately phased out altogether.Hence, progress of socio-economic, and political issues (eg. Fair Trade, Human Rights,Poverty Reduction,Globalization, et al) will gain greater momentum, influence, and power as never before in human history. Certain better financed ngos would find it easier to challenge elitist plutocratic power structures if they feel that their activities to a certain extent are unethical in some manner, or other (eg. some banks, and corporations). Though TFE may make the wealthy richer with green/ethical type investments with the aid of FBs it could ironically lead to their own demise when automation begins to take over work activities. It is then that money itself could become ultimately unnecessary. With the growing financial empowerment of ngos for a new, and hopefully a better, and fairer world the following values should be included notably....... i) The continuance of open democracy, and respect for universal human rights. This is vital. ii) Growing altruism in society should act as the key incentive rather than money. This is very important. Indeed, so-called Happiness Economics seems to indicate that money is not everything. At the sametime, over-consumption of worldly goods does not achieve this either. iii) Evolution towards direct democracy in which a Universal Debating Project, or "forum" could be credibly created on the internet on a p2p Open Source basis to show "all-known" arguments for, and against social, economic, and political issues (without verbal padding). In other words, an objective, and holistic approach to information. This could be updated continually. Something called Debatepedia is a good example of what could be done. iv) The need to move towards a society in which cooperation rather than competition should be the incentive to drive the world forwards. v) Ngos notably concerned with inequality would become increasingly powered by grants to educate, and challenge society for a world with greater equality, and greater fairness.. It is ultimately envisaged that something like an advanced technological world will emerge. The Venus Project inspired by Jacque Fresco, a noted populariser of Technocracy is an example of what could be done in the future. Campaign Activism for Transfinancial Economics. In order to bring about the serious possibility of change from our present debt based economy of taxation, and interest to one which is non-debt based, a campaign would be necessary. Unfortunately, a grassroots organization(s) for the present time to challenge banks, and their kind is unlikely to work.... though we may be wrong. To promote this campaign it is suggested here that a professional website would be set up to spread the word of Transfinancial Economics as a serious, and credible proposal if the world is to successfully survive the global problems of the future. It would be sent to people, and organizations that have power, and influence such as government policy makers,academics,financial companies, et cetera. This is probably the way forward. The TFE website itself would include the following features. A news update about the campaign progress. Commissioned papers (initially) by willing economists possibly using econometric models to show the efficacy of TFE in technical terms, including detailed studies on various facets of the subject. An online Journal of Transfinancial Economics. A powerpoint presentation of TFE for downloading. Possible field trials of the electronic technologies involved in TFE. This could be in part, or fully funded by governments, and/or by Corporations. Retrieved from "http://p2pfoundation.net/Talk:Transfinancial_Economics" Personal tools Log in / create account Namespaces Page Discussion Variants Views Read View source View history Actions Search p2pfoundation Wiki Main Page Wiki community Blog del.icio.us Navigation Recent changes Random page Help Donations Toolbox What links here Related changes Special pages Printable version Permanent link Share this content This page was last modified on 25 June 2011, at 08:31. This page has been accessed 1,453 times. Copyright Information  About the P2P Foundation Wiki

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Re: [P2P-F] go petitions about
by Michel Bauwens 27 Jul '11

27 Jul '11

thanks mark On Wed, Jul 27, 2011 at 7:51 PM, Mark Petz <ravenwyn(a)gmail.com> wrote: > http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/ > -- P2P Foundation: http://p2pfoundation.net - http://blog.p2pfoundation.net Connect: http://p2pfoundation.ning.com; Discuss: http://lists.ourproject.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/p2p-foundation Updates: http://del.icio.us/mbauwens; http://friendfeed.com/mbauwens; http://twitter.com/mbauwens; http://www.facebook.com/mbauwens

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raving reviews for: When Patents Attack - on NPR
by Michel Bauwens 27 Jul '11

27 Jul '11

Topic: When Patents Attack - on NPR<http://groups.google.com/group/openmanufacturing/t/faf0b929585c9c84> ken dabkowski <ken.dabkowski(a)gmail.com> Jul 26 09:47AM -0400 ^<?ui=2&view=bsp&ver=ohhl4rw8mbn4#1316bafad07b2675_digest_top> http://www.thisamericanlife.or g/radio-archives/episode/441/w<http://www.thisamericanlife.or%e2%80%8bg/radio-archives/episode/441/w> hen-patents-attack< http://www.thisamericanlife.org/radio-archives/episode/441/when-patents-att… > - Thought you may like this piece on NPR - hugely important critique of IV and a great breakdown of the patent system. Dave is interviewed midway. It will also be on All Things Considered at 4pm today. Cheers, Ken -- P2P Foundation: http://p2pfoundation.net - http://blog.p2pfoundation.net Connect: http://p2pfoundation.ning.com; Discuss: http://lists.ourproject.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/p2p-foundation Updates: http://del.icio.us/mbauwens; http://friendfeed.com/mbauwens; http://twitter.com/mbauwens; http://www.facebook.com/mbauwens

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Together, an approach to the precariat
by Michel Bauwens 27 Jul '11

27 Jul '11

http://newunionism.wordpress.com/2011/07/26/together/ Dear Orsan, this looks like a really important initiative, could you report on it for the p2p blog? see: ** Together <http://www.together.org.nz/> is a national service that is being developed for the “precariat<http://newunionism.wordpress.com/2009/11/22/precariat/>” — that rapidly growing cohort of workers who do not fit into the standard labourist model of industrial capitalism. Because it is being developed at the national level, with affiliates’ buy-in, it cuts across regional, sectoral and strategic lines. In particular, it aims to bring together: - People on casual contracts; - Those in industries like IT, tourism or in small shops, or driving taxis; - Contractors and workers in remote areas and small towns who don’t currently have access to a union; - The families of current union members. Membership costs just $NZ 1 per week, which is roughly 20% of typical union fees in New Zealand. (One kiwi dollar is equivalent to about $US0.87 or £UK0.53 or ¥68). Family membership is also on offer, bringing a still larger audience back into unionism’s traditional orbit. In fact, the word they use here is “whānau”, which is a Maori word suggesting something more like “extended family”. So, for instance, if mum or dad is a union member, they can also arrange union support for their children, uncles and aunts, cousins, nephews and nieces and grandchildren. As affiliated unions sign up to support and promote the system, they sign a “Memorandum of Commitment<http://www.newunionism.net/library/organizing/NZCTU%20-%20Together%20-%20Me…>” (click to download). This is they key document to read, if you want to understand how Together works. Needless to say, there are all kinds of potential conflicts and pitfalls and fishhooks in a project like this. It is a credit to the kiwis that they’ve managed to negotiate such concerns and get Together off the ground. ** Will this be “the missing link “– a clear route between the precariat and the mainstream of the labour movement? If not, will it become the first step of something that evolves further? It is far too early to make any meaningful assessment of the project, but, as the great Anon once said: *“The best map in the world will not get you anywhere. Only going will get you there.”* -- P2P Foundation: http://p2pfoundation.net - http://blog.p2pfoundation.net Connect: http://p2pfoundation.ning.com; Discuss: http://lists.ourproject.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/p2p-foundation Updates: http://del.icio.us/mbauwens; http://friendfeed.com/mbauwens; http://twitter.com/mbauwens; http://www.facebook.com/mbauwens

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democratic vs. autocratic work cultures
by Michel Bauwens 27 Jul '11

27 Jul '11

http://newunionism.wordpress.com/2011/06/16/democratizing-work-the-why-and-… Dear Tom, interesting study of work culture in this article, can you have a look and eventually report on? Michel -- P2P Foundation: http://p2pfoundation.net - http://blog.p2pfoundation.net Connect: http://p2pfoundation.ning.com; Discuss: http://lists.ourproject.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/p2p-foundation Updates: http://del.icio.us/mbauwens; http://friendfeed.com/mbauwens; http://twitter.com/mbauwens; http://www.facebook.com/mbauwens

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Fwd: New Unionism: The network is the vanguard
by Michel Bauwens 27 Jul '11

27 Jul '11

Really good newsletter on labor/union developments .. Amaia, could you do someting on the wall street campaign (related to 15m), see the first item? many thanks!! Michel ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Peter Hall-Jones <phj(a)newunionism.net> Date: Wed, Jul 27, 2011 at 1:28 PM Subject: New Unionism: The network is the vanguard To: Peter Hall-Jones <newunionism(a)gmail.com> ** July 2011 * <http://www.newunionism.net>Work in Progress* This newsletter is produced by the *New Unionism Network* to promote organizing, workplace democracy, internationalism and creative thinking in the union movement. You can find out more about us and/or join us *here*<http://www.newunionism.net/join.htm> . *#occupywallstreet *Recent calls for activists to occupy Wall Street, starting September 17, are a deliberate salute to the spirit of Egypt's Tahrir Square. The idea originated with the folk at *Adbusters*<http://www.adbusters.org/blogs/adbusters-blog/occupywallstreet.html>, but it has been taken up and promoted by many other groups in the last few days. Competing slogans are flying thick and fast, but the central demand of the event is crystal clear. This is an explicit challenge to the corporate control of politics. The discussion is providing a wonderful, live illustration of network member *Dan Gallin*'s recent maxim: "The network is the vanguard." Will they/we reach the goal of 20,000 campers? Will unions have a presence? Will this be the turning point -- the American spring -- that people have been hoping for? These are *not* rhetorical questions. The event will be whatever we can make it. The all-important FaceBook group is here: * http://goo.gl/TYwDy* <http://goo.gl/TYwDy>. You can have your say on the key demand here: *http://goo.gl/Y9NbI* <http://goo.gl/Y9NbI>. Posters etc are here: *http://goo.gl/Gd2Zf* <http://goo.gl/Gd2Zf>. The collective twittering is here: *http://goo.gl/uxaBz* <http://goo.gl/uxaBz>. *Democratizing work: Why and how *Network member *Merrelyn Emery* draws on an international body of theory and practice to support her case for the democratization of work. This is vital stuff for unionists to understand, and Merrelyn has done a great job of demystification. In discussing how we can move things forward, she looks at the surprisingly simple world of organizational design principles, before going on to argue for an employee-centered redesign process. This is part one of a discussion in which she will argue that worker participation needs to be supported by binding enterprise bargaining agreements. By extension, in transition and in day-to-day practice, workplace democracy needs healthy, independent unions. *More…*<http://newunionism.wordpress.com/2011/06/16/democratizing-work-the-why-and-…> *The SHIH of organizing* The first article in this series by *Rex Lai* was “The TAO of Organizing.” Translated literally, Tao means the way or the path. This second article focuses on SHIH - the ideal destination. *“Shih, a position of potential force—the position of a boulder perched precariously on a hilltop, say, or of a bowstring stretched taut. A tap on the boulder, the release of the bowstring, and potential force is violently unleashed…What matters is not following pre-ordained steps but placing yourself in shih and giving yourselves options.” *(Robert Greene, 33 Strategies of War). *More...*<http://newunionism.wordpress.com/2011/07/19/the-shih-of-organizing/> *Together at last!* Here’s one to watch. Down in New Zealand, a country with an unusually cohesive (though struggling) union movement, affiliates of the national union federation have launched an innovative thing called "Together". We’re calling it a *thing* because it doesn’t really fit into any of the usual drawers. It’s not a union, not an NGO, not an organisation, not a network, not an association, club, sect, faction, fraction, tendency or movement. What it is, above all else, is a potential solution to several of the quandaries that unions have been trying to solve for at least 10 years. In the Council of Trade Union's own words: *"Together aims to connect workers in un-unionised work places with the union movement and the union experience." *In order to do this, it provides *"...help with issues like workplace bullying, sick leave, holiday pay, employment agreements and sexual harassment". *In other words, Together is a national service for the "precariat" -- that rapidly growing cohort of workers who do not fit into the standard labourist model of industrial capitalism. Will this be "the missing link "-- a clear route between the precariat and the mainstream of the labour movement? If not, will it become the first step of something that evolves further? It is far too early to make any meaningful assessment of the project, but, as the great Anon once said: *"The best map in the world will not get you anywhere. Only going will get you there." **More...*<http://newunionism.wordpress.com/2011/07/26/together> * Power in Coalition **Richy Leitch* has reviewed several books on union renewal for this network. The latest is *Power in Coalition* by Amanda Tattersall (Cornell 2010). The book seeks a more analytical approach, in examining union–community coalitions. The author uses extended case studies to identify common elements, patterns of success and possibilities/ limitations. For Tattersall, it's not enough for unions to report their success stories – we need to reflect on *‘what’* worked, and *‘how’*. She argues that such coalitions are effective only when based on commonly determined goals, power sharing and building the capacity of participating organisations... *More*<http://newunionism.wordpress.com/2011/06/12/coalition/>... *An aside to members (you other lot close yr ears!) * <http://www.facebook.com/newunionism>Various folk in the network (hopefully including yourself?) have been continuing discussions on how to escape virtual reality. There's certainly no shortage of ideas flying about. Here's eleven, for starters. They're not listed in any particular order, and they're certainly not mutually exclusive. You can add to the list, or ask for more explanation, or explain your preferences, on the FaceBook group here: http://www.facebook.com/newunionism. (There's some cool and funny pics as well.) 1) We set up an NGO which does whatever work the Network's financial members decides is appropriate, in the name of New Unionism. 2) We set up an NGO to build the network and its resource base, seeking direct union affiliations. 3) We work with unions to set up occupational networks on top of existing structures. 4) We offer to provide keynote speakers on a range of topics for union congresses etc. 5) We form a New Unionism co-op so that financial members can provide services for the union movement (eg research, websites, speakers). 6) We don't decide anything... just aim to maximise discussions and build relationships, on the basis that this will naturally lead to meaningful results. 7) We use the U-Cubed model to set up small, linked groups at 4 different levels: workplace / regional / national and global. 8) We develop a New Unionism accreditation process allowing financial members/staff to audit workplace culture, and institute a Quality Mark for use by genuinely democratic organizations. 9) We start a global campaign, centred in workplaces and promoting unionism, to improve workplace culture. 10) We call for small teams of volunteers to work on implementing any/all of these ideas. Let them decide the structure they need. 11) We build an international democratic socialist party from the ground up, based on the Network's key principles. JOIN US <http://www.newunionism.net/join.htm> * and there's more... - A new way to union renewal?<http://prospect.org/cs/articles?article=a_new_union_contract> - Economic democracy and new unionism<http://column.global-labour-university.org/2011/04/economic-democracy-idea-…> - Building progressive grassroots online <http://www.netrootsuk.org/> - Airline unions form global alliance<http://blog.aflcio.org/2011/04/21/airline-unions-form-global-alliance/> - Workplace democracy pays off<http://www.bnet.com/blog/entrepreneurs/why-it-pays-to-run-your-company-demo…> - Non-hierarchical work practices<http://self-org.blogspot.com/p/anti-hierarchical-artifices-for-groups.html> - Harnessing your email list<http://alexwhite.org/2011/06/harnessing-your-email-list-for-change-great-ad…> - The OpenWatch project<http://www.boingboing.net/2011/06/24/copwatch-and-openwat.html> - Work hours per week around the world<http://www.dailyhaha.com/linkout.asp?LinkID=5145&cat=news> - Social progress and economic reaction<http://www.huffingtonpost.com/robert-kuttner/economic-gap_b_880091.html?ref…> - Has technology changed organizing?<http://www.movements.org/blog/entry/q-and-a-with-marshall-ganz-on-technolog…> - New International for industrial workers<http://www.ocnus.net/artman2/publish/Labour_9/IMF-ICEM-ITGLWF-Move-to-Creat…> - And now there's AnonyMiss<http://www.boingboing.net/2011/03/21/anonymiss-the-yin-to.html> - Astroturf on demand<http://www.boingboing.net/2011/03/07/glenn-becks-syndicat.html> - What conservatives really want<http://www.huffingtonpost.com/george-lakoff/what-conservatives-really_b_825…> - Mapping the production process<http://snuproject.wordpress.com/2011/02/16/mapping-the-production-process-o…> - Better training presentations<http://www.digicast.com.au/blog/how-to-improve-your-training-presentations?…> - U.A.W. organizing offshore<http://www.nytimes.com/2011/01/13/business/global/13uaw.html?_r=3&emc=tnt&t…> - Work-related stress in Europe<http://www.eurofound.europa.eu/ewco/studies/tn1004059s/tn1004059s_5.htm> - Film: Not My Life<http://www.huffingtonpost.com/armand-f-pereira/globalization-and-modern-sla…> - Government workers of the world unite!<http://www.economist.com/node/17849199?story_id=17849199> - Challenging the sweatshop norm<http://thetyee.ca/News/2011/01/05/OneTinyFactory/> - Cyberunions - MA Thesis<http://cyberunions.files.wordpress.com/2010/10/ma-iltus-dissertation.pdf> - Meet the Council of Global Unions<http://www.global-unions.org/council-of-global-unions.html?lang=en> - Products most likely made by child labor<http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/12/18/child-labor-products_n_798601.html…> - China's wage growth over-estimated?<http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/business/2010-12/16/content_11712424.htm> - Short-time work and flexicurity<http://www.eurofound.europa.eu/press/eurofoundnews/2010/december/newsletter…> - Global Wage Report 2010/11<http://www.ilo.org/global/publications/ilo-bookstore/order-online/books/WCM…> - Precarious work in Latin America<http://www.icem.org/index.php?id=73&la=EN&doc=4151> - Prospect's partnership with KETAWU<http://www.tuc.org.uk/international/tuc-18924-f0.cfm> - Meet Anonymous<http://www.economist.com/blogs/babbage/2010/12/more_wikileaks> - Got a social media strategy?<http://www.movements.org/blog/entry/how-to-craft-a-social-media-strategy-to…> *** *Creative Commons Attribution 2.5 License* **<http://newunionism.wordpress.com/2010/11/24/tax-havens-and-globalisation/> *Feedback *This newsletter comes out every couple of months-ish. Ok, so we've been a bit slack lately. Anyway, we welcome your feedback, no matter how blunt the language. Contact feedback(a)newunionism.net. If you'd like to SUBSCRIBE, just forward this email to subs(a)newunionism.net with the word SUBSCRIBE in the subject line. And of course, you can also send a message with UNSUBSCRIBE. -- P2P Foundation: http://p2pfoundation.net - http://blog.p2pfoundation.net Connect: http://p2pfoundation.ning.com; Discuss: http://lists.ourproject.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/p2p-foundation Updates: http://del.icio.us/mbauwens; http://friendfeed.com/mbauwens; http://twitter.com/mbauwens; http://www.facebook.com/mbauwens

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Re: [P2P-F] syntagma, p2p interventions by George P., re commons vs market and state
by Michel Bauwens 27 Jul '11

27 Jul '11

Dear George, not sure if you are aware of this, but I have create 3 new sections of the wiki to collate material on the p2p approaches to civil society, market and the state: http://p2pfoundation.net/Category:Civil_Society ; http://p2pfoundation.net/Category:P2P_Market_Approaches ; http://p2pfoundation.net/Category:P2P_State_Approaches a recent summary is at http://blog.p2pfoundation.net/the-basic-orientation-of-p2p-theory-towards-s… and have you seen David Ronfeldt's treatment of the partner state? at http://twotheories.blogspot.com/2011/07/bauwens-partner-state-part-1-of-2-v… On Tue, Jul 26, 2011 at 3:58 AM, George Papanikolaou <georgepapani(a)gmail.com > wrote: > We spoke last saturday ~ 200 partcipants - topic digital commons and > democracy - advocacy of free software + introduction to the idea of commons > vs market and state - very interested > George > -- P2P Foundation: http://p2pfoundation.net - http://blog.p2pfoundation.net Connect: http://p2pfoundation.ning.com; Discuss: http://lists.ourproject.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/p2p-foundation Updates: http://del.icio.us/mbauwens; http://friendfeed.com/mbauwens; http://twitter.com/mbauwens; http://www.facebook.com/mbauwens

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Re: [P2P-F] do you have the Kasier Report bitcoin interview? - here is the link
by Michel Bauwens 27 Jul '11

27 Jul '11

yep I got that one ... already in blog and wiki, thanks Mark! On Wed, Jul 27, 2011 at 3:45 AM, Mark Petz <ravenwyn(a)gmail.com> wrote: > > > ---------- Forwarded message ---------- > From: Kevin Morgan <huwkevin(a)yahoo.com> > Date: Tue, Jul 26, 2011 at 6:37 PM > Subject: A Pint of Mixed please landlord > To: "ravenwyn(a)gmail.com" <ravenwyn(a)gmail.com> > > > I've stopped using gmail & stick with yahoo updated version. > About the only advantage I noticed with gmail is it loads files quicker. > > Anyway... > > In the second half of the following show > http://rt.com/programs/keiser-report/finance-politics-gold-money/ Max > Keiser talks to Amir Taaki, founder of BitcoinConsultancy, about the > peer-to-peer currency Bitcoin and its recent trials and tribulations. > > There are items in relating to matters of general Copyright mentioned in > the show - linked to Bitcoin too! > > So I hope you find it interesting in terms you might want to follow through > to Amir Taaki founder of BitCoinConsultancy. > > http://bitcoinconsultancy.com/ and > https://bitcoinconsultancy.com/wiki/index.php/Main_Page in relation to > which former, contact for IRC channel shown can not be got from Swansea > Library and I just get (and you might)... > > "irc://irc.freenode.org/bitcoinconsultancy" in Title bar with "WEBPAGE CAN > NOT BE DISPLAYED" and so if you have similar in Finland you may want to > report that to some Bitter people he suggested mildly! > > -- P2P Foundation: http://p2pfoundation.net - http://blog.p2pfoundation.net Connect: http://p2pfoundation.ning.com; Discuss: http://lists.ourproject.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/p2p-foundation Updates: http://del.icio.us/mbauwens; http://friendfeed.com/mbauwens; http://twitter.com/mbauwens; http://www.facebook.com/mbauwens

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