Starting Points

Problem

Americans have become disillusioned with their voice in democracy and the consolidation of wealth and power in our economy. We’ve distilled three starting points to cross this chasm.

#1: Rising above polarizing economic debates.

Problem

Americans have been convinced that they’re against each other.

In reality, many of these polarities are manufactured by the interests of large corporations, billionaires, and partisan politics. Forced to pick a side, we are pigeonholed from engaging in comprehensive solutions at our sources of political and economic power.

Solution

A flourishing economic system empowers people to meet their everyday needs and care for future generations. These conversations can be practical rather than political.

Considerations

Consider media sources that lead with quality journalism and civil engagement rather than the profit motive and special interests.

#2: Valuing the health of living systems.

Problem

Our economic culture has valued the constant accumulation of wealth (capitalism) over our civilization’s long-term health and sustainability. As a result, our personal, social, and ecological well-being is constantly in crisis.

Solution

Our bodies, communities, and environments are all living systems. Thus, we need economies that prioritize the health of living systems over extractive enterprising.

Considerations

What’s your vision for a sustainable future?

What choices can we make today that prioritize our personal and collective well-being?

#3: Reining in the forces of crony capitalism.

Problem

Most large corporations are structurally obligated to maximize profits for Wall Street or Silicon Valley owners. These corporations undermine democratic power through Super PACs, lobbying efforts, and by perpetuating unsubstantiated rhetoric of social good.

As corporate wealth and inequality continue to expand, our democracy has become increasingly frayed by disillusionment, distrust, division, dysfunction, and authoritarianism.

Solution

Our constitution starts with We the People, not We the Corporations.

For those words to hold meaning, it’s our collective responsibility to claim the power of a vibrant democratic society.

Proposals

We advocate for two general positions:

  1. Obligating corporate rhetoric to match its structural realities.

  2. Raising the bar for responsible business in the mid-21st century.