Tenets

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At this time in our history, it has become imperative to challenge the status quo. With the ongoing wars, genocides, degradation of peoples, diseases of stress and overworking, market-based meritocracy, and the push toward a hive mentality versus critical thinking, we must effectively challenge the dysfunctional aspects of Western society. To that end, we submit: The Modern Transcendentalist Movement.

1. Radical Pragmatism

This is a cornerstone, focusing on tangible results rather than idealistic promises. Radical pragmatism accepts that change cannot happen within the confines of current broken systems—whether political, economic, or social. It’s about identifying power structures, acknowledging their role in perpetuating inequality, and employing whatever means necessary (legal, economic, disruptive) to dismantle and rebuild them. Nonviolence is prioritized where effective, but The Modern Transcendentalist Movement does not shy away from forceful resistance where necessary. We advocate self-defense rather than passive nonviolence in the face of oppression. 

2. Systemic Disruption

The Modern Transcendentalist Movement rejects the incrementalism that has long failed to address issues like systemic racism, economic inequality, and environmental collapse. Instead, we emphasize systemic disruption, not just protesting within the rules of the system, but actively dismantling the frameworks that uphold dysfunction. This includes;

 A. Economic Disruption 

Boycotting, divesting, and disrupting the operations of corporations and institutions that exploit or    perpetuate inequality. Economic power is one of the most concentrated forms of control in Western society, so attacking it directly is key. 

B. Institutional Overhaul

Rather than reforming corrupt institutions (e.g., legal systems, media, corporate governance), The  Modern Transcendentalist Movement pushes for their complete dissolution and restructuring with new systems that prioritize human dignity, community sovereignty, and decentralized power. 

3. Ethical Insurrection

Violence for the Modern Transcendentalist is not about chaos but is ethical insurrection—a justified and moral uprising against oppression. Similar to the notion of a "just war" but applied internally, it is argued that when systems continuously abuse people’s rights and lives, resistance, even if violent, is a moral duty. We recognize that colonized or oppressed groups often find liberation through violent resistance when peaceful methods are systematically, and continuously, suppressed. 

4. Decentralization of Power

The Modern Transcendentalist Movement advocates for decentralization, where power is taken from the hands of a corrupt few and redistributed to communities. A human perspective is taken where power is concerned, so we advocate for small, self-governed collectives or local governance bodies to have the power to make decisions affecting their lives, free from top-down impositions. Technology will play a role here, with blockchain or other decentralized tools being used to facilitate governance and economy without the need for state or corporate intermediaries. 

5. Restorative Justice and Retributive Action

While restorative justice (reconciliation, healing) is important for mending societal wounds, there is also a need for retributive justice—holding elites accountable through means that will range from economic sanctions to trials and punishment for their exploitation, corruption, and environmental destruction. The Modern Transcendentalist Movement holds that forgiveness without accountability is dangerous and perpetuates cycles of abuse. 

6. Human Collective Identity

Western society’s dysfunction stems from hyper-individualism, toxic nationalism, and consumerism. The Modern Transcendentalist Movement fosters a collective identity rooted in interdependence, sustainability, and global citizenship. The emphasis is on human flourishing beyond borders, and prioritizing collective well-being over individual wealth accumulation. Cultural narratives that glorify material success and individualism will be replaced with stories of shared responsibility, resilience, and communal strength, as these stories have been hidden from history for far too long.  

7. Strategic Use of Technology and Media

Since traditional media is often co-opted by the state or corporate interests, The Modern Transcendentalist Movement will employ alternative media and decentralized communication networks to spread its message, share organizing tools, and to mobilize effectively. The use of digital tools for transparency, collective action, and counter-narratives will undermine the state’s propaganda machinery and build solidarity across geographic and cultural boundaries. 

8. Environmental Justice

A crucial part of The Modern Transcendentalist Movement is the understanding that the exploitation of the Earth is deeply connected to the exploitation of people. We advocate for radical environmental justice, including the aggressive dismantling of industries that contribute to ecological destruction and human disease. The Modern Transcendentalist Movement promotes sustainable, community-led alternatives, and the use of eco-sabotage against corporations and industries that refuse to change. 

9. Spiritual Reclamation and Psychological Liberation

Drawing from ancient and indigenous wisdom traditions, The Modern Transcendentalist Movement includes a spiritual and psychological dimension. The Western world has long operated on a fragmented worldview that separates mind, body, spirit, and nature, and has used oppressive medical and religious dogma as a means of control. Reclaiming a holistic understanding of consciousness and spirituality will empower people to see themselves as part of an interconnected whole, thus leading to inspiration to act, not just out of material self-interest but for the good of people, the Earth, and future generations. 

10. International Solidarity and Action

Recognizing the global nature of Western dominance (neocolonialism, imperialism), The Modern Transcendentalist Movement is aligned with international movements for justice, helping to foster solidarity among oppressed groups worldwide. This involves coordinating with global resistance movements and supporting insurgencies in regions where Western influence has created economic or environmental devastation. 

11. Radical Inclusion

In contrast to the exclusionary practices of Western politics (whether via race, class, gender, or nationality), The Modern Transcendentalist Movement emphasizes radical inclusion. This involves incorporating diverse voices in decision-making processes and respecting the autonomy of marginalized communities, ensuring that their knowledge, needs, and experiences are central to rebuilding society. 

12. Realignment of Power and Values 

The Modern Transcendentalist Movement does not shy away from forceful methods, but it does not resort to violence gratuitously. The central tenets are the autonomy of people, and to realign the power structures of society, disrupting exploitative systems while empowering local communities. The ultimate goal is to create a just and equitable society by whatever means necessary.