Resources
Multi-sector
Solutions
Even without a holistic and systemic perspective, promoting fairness, self-development, and community empowerment within only two or more sectors can help spread compassion and justice throughout society and help transform the System. The more change agents relieve suffering and improve living conditions, the better it is. In this way, they pave the path for unity with other change agents and joint, coordinated action.
Philip Woods defines holistic democracy as
a way of working together which encourages individuals to grow and learn as whole people and facilitates co-responsibility, mutual empowerment, and fair participation of all in co-creating their social and organizational environment.
He says the four core dimensions of holistic practice are:
Holistic meaning: aspiring to as true an understanding as possible not only of technical and scientific matters but also the “big” questions of enduring values, meaning, and purpose, through development of all our human capabilities — from the intellectual to the spiritual.
Power-sharing: inclusive participation in shaping organizational operations, policy, direction, and values, and autonomy to exercise initiative within the parameters of agreed values and responsibilities.
Transforming dialogue: a climate where exchange of views and open debate are possible, and people co-operatively seek to enhance mutual understanding and reach beyond narrow perspectives and interests.
Holistic well-being: a sense of belonging, deep connectedness, inner knowing, feelings of empowerment, self-esteem, and independent-mindedness through democratic participation.
In every sector, individuals, organizations, and communities can honor these values. When they do, even if they focus on their own work, as do these multi-sector resources, they advance holistic and systemic transformation throughout society.
Problems
Solutions
Actions
Knowledge Base