the illusion of democracy and the scaffolding of a new one

To Form a Collective Society

PLEASE FEEL FREE TO REVISE, EDIT, AND ADAPT "TO FORM A COLLECTIVE SOCIETY" AS YOU SEE FIT. - kolektiv




Manifesto Defined:Above all else, a manifesto is a document that must be provocative. In order to act provocatively the writer of a manifesto may demand, reexamine existing traditions, beliefs, ideals, and strategies; raise questions, inspire, invoke anger, and so on. Unlike formal treatises manifestos are generally not set in stone, but act as a starting point that can lead to an immense variety of outcomes. Some possibilities include: new building strategies, new application of materials, new concepts and ideologies, and more writing. In a sense, the emotions projected through the written text of a manifesto can be compared to that of a vocal call to arms. They are less about specific technical details, than they are about making initial contact with paper. Through a manifesto a writer is allowed to express his or her thoughts and emotions on paper, which can in turn open a dialogue with potential readers.
According to Ulrich Conrads in Programs and manifestos on 20th -century architecture, “Nearly every important development in the modern architectural movement began with the proclamation of these convictions in the form of a program or manifesto.” A manifesto does necessarily provide a finite solution to any problem, but presents a foundation with enough information to inspire continual development. The brevity and concise nature of manifestos makes their reading relatively easy and enjoyable even for even the most inattentive, uninformed individuals.
One need not be a connoisseur of architecture nor formal politics in order to learn from a manifesto. Manifestos are not political in the sense of government, but stand to act in the Greek meaning “of, for, or relating to citizens” in which groups of people make collective decisions. This document is one person's position on a given topic that many people can respond to. Readers are encouraged to take as much as they can from a given writing and begin to adapt, or change, it as they see fit. Finally, manifestos are architectural in multiple ways, but not only on the topic of physical built forms. More importantly, manifestos begin to divulge ideas for a new social architecture. Some ideas they may explore include: the reform of existing policies, the effectiveness of existing social practices, how design may act as an important factor in changing the quality of life, and possibly even the formation of a new collective society.

To Form a Collective Society:
1. To form a functional collective we must first establish or values and commonalities. After all, without communal interests and goals we shall always stand alone.

2. Once established we must begin to understand the dynamic relationship between our governing theories, or doctrine of thoughts, and how we can apply these practices in real life situations.


3. To maintain a collective capable of lasting social change, a large quantity of participants is necessary. Though we may start with a small, core group of organizers and facilitators, as more challenges are overcome our support will grow.

4. The core shall only provide themselves to stir discussions, provide lecturers and readings, help further the education of the collective, etc. They will by no means declare themselves as leaders, restricting the progress of the collective for personal gain. As long as the collective continues to agree upon its goals and ideals, always intending to push forwards, the group can conduct itself.

5. The collective will not be made up of one specific race, ethnicity, or community of people.

6. The members of the collective are entitled and encouraged to support their own freewill, gaining knowledge in order to nurture the ideas they place value in, as long as the outcome intends to benefit everyone.

7. Agreements or disagreements must be voiced in order for the realization of potential areas of collaboration. In the event of a disagreement we shall discuss and debate until a practical and universally agreed upon resolution can be made.

8. Together we are an assembly of individuals organized to determine how we can design a better tomorrow for all. Our common interests and determination to make lasting social reform are the glue that holds us together. In our society no one is left behind.