Editorial: Seeds of Change and Changeology
The state uses its muscle power to quell the thousands of protesters in Koodamkulam; villagers in Omkareshwar had to stand for 17 days in ‘jal satyagraha’ in the water, to fight for their legitimate and constitutional rights for re-habilitation on being ousted from their lands and livelihood. Several people following Anna Hazare and others go on a fast every now and then to fight against corruption. A series of scams has only hardened the remorseless stand of the Government.
Witnessing all these – mostly second-hand through the media – ends up giving us the subtle message that it is safer to toe the mainstream line. That going against the mainstream is tough and dangerous. The media also gives an impression through glamorous ‘role-models’ that life-as-usual and business-as-usual are fine. Under this scenario, how many youngsters, or middle-aged adults for that matter, are interested in change for themselves or for the world?
Yet there are youngsters around the world who have taken the less trodden path, braving disapproval of parents and the disbelief and peer-pressure of friends. Certainly a very miniscule percentage of youth today may be looking at careers or activities that support and popularise sustainable living – but the seeds of change are there to see.
Many youngsters are part of movements to fight corporate and governmental exploitation in the US, Europe, Japan and other countries. Not too many people in India who have seen the materialistic ‘good life’ have been thrown out of jobs or threatened by banks for re-possession of their homes. Hence we do not have phenomena like Occupy Wall Street or We are the 99%, but there is still a little ‘buzz’ about alternative life-styles.
In his book called ‘Changeology’, Les Robinson has written about the theory and practice of ‘Change’. The book showcases real-life stories and hard evidence about professionals and individuals who are acting to influence the behaviour of corporations, neighbourhoods and groups and communities. He has summed up his findings through 6 principles of change. Briefly, they are: Buzz, Hope, Enabling Environments, Sticky Solutions, Can do attitude and the Right Inviter.
The Buzz about green living and hope is what is making several youngsters begin their social enterprises or activities for green ways of living. The other four principles are tougher but the youngsters featured in this issue and many others are leading the way to bring in changes we desperately need in these times when humanity seems to be hurtling towards disaster. We need to value and celebrate their concern for the world, their courage to brave the odds of going against the mainstream and most of all, their spirit of giving.
Some of the articles in the issue. (Click on title to view the article)
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