by James | Jun 6, 2012 | Exploration I
In actuality I’ve discovered there are a number of systems that don’t require reinforced hierarchy in the typical sense at all. For example there is the concept of Dunbar’s rule of 150 (The Magic of 150), which has profoundly altered the way I think about how complex societies can operate if they are correctly framed.
However, the idea of some method like the belt grading system attributed to Martial Arts or the board game Go still appeals to me. The continuum between a graduate and a professor is indistinct and doesn’t offer a clear view of where the two rely in relation to each other. Even more importantly if someone is to leave University or standard education institutions before graduating or passing the final exam they appear to have as little education as when they entered. It also clearly differentiates the difference between age and level of competence, which is usually quite disparate.
While I’m not sure a simple grading system could correctly be applied to multi-disciplinary skills it would be a step in the right direction. I suppose the other alternative is the adult equivalent of Scout activity badges, to take a more fantastic approach Game of thrones gives us Maesters who wear a chain of various substances to signify their personal expertise. Each link indicates a different field of study.
Although really at this point we are bandying words, for an adult studying electronic engineering a activity badge / link equivalent would simply be a written certification in a subject.
by James | Jun 5, 2012 | Exploration I
Why are there different titles for different members?
In any real system there is a variance of skills, experience, ability or purpose. Thus to give certain elected officials or superiors it is only right to have some kind of honorific titles. Specialist areas like Head-chef, Manager of human resources, Accounts manager, Master of the department e.t.c. A list of clear necessary titles and generic ones for each department or field of research.
If there were enough interest a system of honorific suffixes such as used in Japan (-sama, -san, -domo) is a possible method showing appropriate deferment to someone’s ability, experience or station. Even in the most democratic egalitarian societal systems there must be some form of structure or hierarchy even if only by department.
Finally, considering the academic nature of the community a title could give you understanding of the difference of levels between yourself and a fellow member, much like the kyu, dan belt systems used in a variety of Asian martial arts and sports. The idea of being a 3rd grade black-belt in physics specialising in x, y and z would be an interesting concept.
by James | Jun 5, 2012 | Exploration I
Why must there be a regular and strict schedule to follow?
For the community to function it must have a regular predictable cycle to the days. In fact for a new community such as the one being suggested it is vital to build in a sense of time and place for work study, play e.t.c.
Habitual routines are very good for keeping us motivated and stop us procrastinating in addition to this they keep our sleep, wake and digestive cycles in time. The disruption of sleep patterns and lifestyle have been shown to have deep effects on our levels of concentration, and our levels of energy.
It is worth mentioning that different people have different optimal hours of working and there are many studies that could be done to correctly find the optimal hours of work, research, practice and exercise, tailored specifically for the individual.
by James | Jun 1, 2012 | Exploration I
Why is diet and nutritional intake carefully maintained?
Practically speaking when feeding people in a communal way it is necessary to maintain clear rules of intake and quantities to maintain a strict control over costs. Also this comes back to the community being responsible and looking after the health of the individual to help the whole. This doesn’t mean there won’t be luxuries, alcohol or chocolate but that the food that the community does provide will be more what you need, and only sufficient amounts of that, rather than all the things you desire.
That said, there will have to be allergy specific meals and a range of dishes, types of food and choices available . Not only this but a a good diet, correct levels of intake and distributed throughout the day will greatly improve the health, reduce risks of cancer, stop weight gain and improve the general functioning of the communities body.
by James | May 31, 2012 | Exploration I
Why is there a mandatory element of exercise and physical training?
You can with a little thought find 3 reasons for this;
- Physical exercise has been shown to improve mood, combat chronic disease, manage your weight, improve motivational and energy level, lead to better sleep and improves cognitive function.
- A good physical preparedness will prepare you to be in the best possible condition to deal with the unexpected situations you may face in life whether that be severe trauma or chemotherapy, being able to help others after an earthquake or tsunami or simply to run and catch the bus that will get you to your job interview. Preparing for the unexpected before it occurs is always preferable to wishing you had done more to prepare later.
- It is n the best interests of the community and yourself that you live a long and healthy life, do not squander or throw away the remarkable body and life you have been lucky enough to have. Allowing your body to deteriorate is a prolonged form of suicide you should be circumspect of the way you treat it.
