From: jimruttshow8596
The concept of “membranics and protocols” is central to the development of new community structures, particularly in the context of the Game B movement. This approach aims to create resilient and adaptable communities that learn and evolve, moving beyond the pitfalls of utopian or dystopian thinking [00:25:21].
Core Concepts
Membranics
Membranics refers to the design and operation of semi-permeable boundaries for communities [00:38:18]. Unlike rigid walls, membranes allow for flow and interaction, while still defining an “inside” and an “outside” [00:33:05].
Key aspects of membranes:
- Semi-permeability They allow information and people to enter and exit the system, but require an effort to do so [00:38:45]. This deliberate effort helps filter what comes in and out, supporting the coherence of the community [00:52:50].
- Voluntary Inclusion/Exclusion A crucial principle is that people must be able to freely join and leave these communities [00:33:05]. This ensures that the community remains voluntary, avoiding the dangers of totalitarianism where participation is mandated [00:33:17].
- Cultural Norms and Technology Discernment Membranes can define normative values for a community. For example, a community might establish a rule about smartphone usage for children, making it easier for parents to enforce such boundaries within that specific cultural context [00:41:56]. This contrasts with a traditional suburban setting where such a rule would be very difficult to maintain [00:41:49].
Protocols
Protocols are the “standards” or agreed-upon rules within a community that enable cooperation and coordination [00:47:14].
Key aspects of protocols:
- Copyability and Shareability Protocols are designed to be copied and shared between different communities, facilitating communication and interaction between them [00:47:17].
- Multiple Protocols Communities can have multiple protocols for different purposes, such as discerning technology use, coordinating work, or managing ideas [00:47:37].
- AI-Friendly Artificial intelligence can assist in managing and keeping track of numerous protocols, making complex systems more manageable [00:47:57].
Principles of Community Design
The development of these communities, often referred to as “proto-B’s,” emphasizes an experimental and iterative approach, distinct from rigid, centralized planning.
Avoiding Utopianism
Utopian thinking is seen as a dangerous trap, often leading to tyrannical outcomes, as exemplified by figures like Pol Pot [00:26:34]. The idea of a “perfect world” implies stasis, which is antithetical to change and thus, to life itself [00:24:50].
Embracing Protopianism
Instead of seeking a perfect end state, protopianism involves continuously tearing down and rebuilding, aiming for slight improvements each day [00:25:21]. This approach allows for ongoing innovation and adaptation [00:25:39].
Organic and Emergent Design
Rather than top-down design, communities should allow for organic growth and emergent structures. An example from urban planning is to first lay down a lawn and then build pathways where people naturally choose to walk, instead of dictating paths from the outset [00:33:55]. This approach avoids creating “horrible neighborhoods” that look good on paper but fail in practice [00:33:40].
The “Exodus” and Implotation Paradigm
The shift to these new communities can be viewed as an “exodus,” moving from a paradigm of “exploitation” (infinite resource use) to one of “implotation” (replenishing resources) [00:52:50]. This involves a conscious choice to live within the earth’s limits [00:28:55].
The 3:3 Transition
A proposed goal for these communities is a “three-three transition”: increasing human well-being by a factor of three while decreasing material inputs by a factor of three [00:31:26]. This involves investing in commons and community, fostering a sense of voluntary communism, and incorporating practices that enhance well-being like built-in holidays, singing, and exercising [00:31:42].
The Role of Experimentation and Mimicry
New models must be dared into existence and demonstrated to be effective [00:43:07]. Once a successful model is shown, human beings are adept at mimicking it, allowing for the widespread adoption of beneficial behaviors and structures [00:43:21]. This process moves from initial anarchy (caused by technological disruption) to a “plurality” where successful elites figure out how to leverage technology, providing models for others to follow [00:43:47].
Addressing Sex and Violence
These fundamental human forces, categorized as “pathos,” are acknowledged as never being harmonious or balanced [00:50:51]. Unlike traditional Western philosophies that might try to suppress or ban pathos, a more nuanced approach is needed, akin to Eastern philosophy’s concept of Tantra, where these forces are recognized as inherent parts of humanity that must be dealt with [00:51:58]. They represent “pharmacon” forces – simultaneously constructive and destructive, and their impact depends on how they are engaged with [00:52:51].
Ethical Framework: Asha
An ethical framework, such as the Zoroastrian concept of “Asha,” provides a constructive mindset for the future [00:54:28]. Asha, akin to Dao in Daoism, signifies “how the world works” [00:55:04]. The practitioner (“Ashavan”) aims to be constructively engaged with the world through their thoughts, speech, and actions, acknowledging that the past is fixed but the future is contingent and full of freedom [00:54:11].