In our search for the most effective ways to self-govern while living and working together, we have run into the idea of “Prosocial Theory” by David Sloan Wilson. He advocates for the idea that we are programmed by evolution for prosocial behavior of cooperation in small groups. Stemming from that, he is convinced that one way to achieve positive or prosocial cultural change, is through polycentric governance style. He speaks to that and a lot more in the podcast we listened to “A More Prosocial World in Theory and Practice”. This piqued our interest as a potential governance style here at Earthseed, and we took note of the 8 principles he proposes as pillars for supporting the collaboration and prosocial behaviors in effective groups, while managing disruptive behaviors by the members. These are generalized from Nobel Prize-winner Elinor Ostrum’s core design principles of effective groups. There is also a brief mention of “tight groups” and “loose groups”, which is interesting to apply towards future Earthseed structure.
Here are the 8 principles of prosocial governance model as offered by Wilson:
- Strong Sense of Identity and Purpose
- Proportional costs & benefits: gives vs takes
- Inclusive decision-making: fairness and wisdom of the masses
- Monitoring agreed-upon behaviors
- Graduated sanctions, which increase over time: both consequences and abundant grace
- Fast & just conflict resolution
- Authority to self-govern
- Appropriate relations with other groups, including largest like government
We hope to do more research about it, as well as have conversations with the potential and current community members about using these guiding principles for our community. We will also expand on these in our visioning document.
For now, if you found this topic interesting and have ideas or want to converse or debate or expand on this governance style or any of the specific principles of it – we’d love to hear from you!
Also, any alternative ideas are in the running as well. We have members experienced in holacracy to varying degrees. Sociocracy is another one, and there are many more, of course. When we are living and working together, it will definitely be a point of discussion to choose one or blend a few to our needs. For now, let us ponder, research, debate, find loop holes and keep on a lookout for what has and hasn’t worked for others.
Let’s keep the conversation flowing…
