So, I'm not sure how many people have looked into the Venus Project, but I've uncovered means of achieving their goal of a resource based economy without a central computer mainframe. Using some technology being developed, and by further observing nature (I think people are becoming pretty aware, no need for a super AI), we can solve the problems of poverty without government or universal reform. No one needs to join if they don't want to, just the people who do need to step up and actually start working on it. 3D Printing: http://freeindependentsun.com/technology/3d-printing-the-proto-replicator/ Open Source Ecology: http://freeindependentsun.com/technology/open-source-ecology-the-techno-farmer-and-the-industrial-community/
I have been a supporter of the Venus Project for some time - it's too bad that no one else has responded to this thread for nearly a year! While most people assume that money must somehow be involved with everything we do, if one gives it some thought, they quickly find that - through the reasonable management of the Earth's resources and a plan that focuses on the betterment of people - massive change is possible. Anyway, I recently came across another site that you might want to check out: www.theresourcebasedeconomy.com Cheers!
Could someone explain to me how exactly this is different from a soviet command economy? (And yes, i understand the no money part, i dont see what difference that makes though, its still a command economy)
Hello Munqi, Great question! Almost every time the Venus Project is described, either "communism" and/or "socialism" pops up as one of the reactions. Well, without simply regurgitating an explanation from the Venus Project or Zeitgeist Movement website, allow me the opportuity to describe what I think the differences are. As I understand it (but feel free to illuminate me if I'm a bit off), a "Soviet command economy" exists where all property and services are owned and operated by the state - a central government. However, in a "resource-based economy" (one version being the Venus Project), there is private "usership." That is, in this system, whatever you have in your possession at the moment "belongs" to you, and is not permanently "owned" by anyone. As long as you continue to "use" it, it's yours to do with as you please (provided you don't hurt anyone or anything else). Of course, the "usership" idea - at least in part - is derived from the notion that there is no form of money or barter in a RBE, and physical objects can more easily move to those who need them most at the moment. In other words, money - or the lack thereof - does not hinder the movement of needed resources (i.e., food, water, materials for shelter). Now, there is a much more important concept with regard to a RBE, and that is, by removing money, barter, credit, and trade from our lives, we could sharply reduce crime, eliminate jobs that do not positively impact the human condition (bankers, lawyers, accountants, investors, etc.), accurately assess our raw resources, and finally focus on helping each other become the best we can be. Though there is much more to discuss, I will close with a few thoughts to ponder: - People do NOT behave the way they do because of some unchangeable genetic predisposition or "human nature," but rather are the product of their upbringing and environment. - The vast majority of people have positive intent, and would like to contribute something "good" to this world, to make it better for their descendants. - Technology is expanding exponentially, and is going to be deployed whether we welcome it or not. Think of "technological unemployment," and then think of the notion of embracing technology, and how it can make our lives easier. It's not about people being lazy, but rather people being free to reach their full potential. - Education is key. The smarter people are, the less likely they are to have more children than they can reasonably raise (no need for centrally-mandated birth control), the more likely they will be motivated to contribute to their communities, and the better off we will all be! I am curious to hear your thoughts. Thanks!
So, like will Assembly Required kids Christmas presents go by the wayside?... TED 2013: 4D printed objects 'make themselves' 28 February 2013 - Many are only just getting their heads around the idea of 3D printing but scientists at MIT are already working on an upgrade: 4D printing.
[video=youtube;4qKAse8388k]http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=4qKAse8388k#![/video] [video=youtube;-wR1nX2Rfis]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-wR1nX2Rfis[/video] [video=youtube;fzirIG55fkE]http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=fzirIG55fkE[/video]
Uncle Ferd wish dey'd hurry up with 3D printer womens... Future Astronauts Could Print Food May 22, 2013 - Astronauts on future missions to Mars may be able to dial up a pizza via a 3D printer.
