PLANETARY INITIATIVE FOR THE WORLD WE CHOOSE
Global consensus for a better future
Donald Keys
We’re trying to bring together, meld and find a consensus mandate for the kind of world we would choose and how to get the wreckage of the old one out of the way… we don’t have to have the world we have chosen by misdirection, indirection, apathy and indifference, greed or selfishness.
Donald Keys, Executive Director of the Planetary Initiative, describes a collaboration around the world which began with community meetings and regional congresses. Their focus was to integrate various studies to form a consensus on creating a better world. The stated goal of the current Congress is to “foster a grassroots self-education program leading to an informed, motivated populace that influences policy and decision-making, potentially to address the global mega crises.”
TRANSCRIPT
Video Duration: 3:23
The Secretariat Panel
Donald Keys, Executive Director of the Planetary Initiative for the World We Choose, introduces an information gathering session that aims to understand the feelings and wishes of the Congress, contact persons, coordinate council members and supportive organizations to create an informed profile for the Planetary Initiative. He acknowledges the contributions of Fran Macy from the Association for Humanistic Psychology, Bill Bahan from the Society of Emissaries and human rights activist Gehart Elston.
TRANSCRIPT
Video Duration: 27:55
The spirit of the planetary initiative
Bill Porter
We have moved from the mega crisis to the mega opportunity… I prefer to let the future reveal what it will, based on my action here and now.
Bill Porter says the global crisis presents a significant opportunity due to the spirit of the Planetary Initiative. He sees the Congress as part of an ongoing process of teaching empowerment and the ability to effect change. He uses the analogy of Columbus’s journey and the symbol of Omega—the Congress’ logo behind him—to illustrate the importance of citizen action in shaping the future.
TRANSCRIPT
Video Duration: 5:02
Empowering unity for a sustainable future: keynote address by canadian chancellor
George Ignatieff
We’re going through a period of transition from the old industrial system of mass production and the exploitation of natural resources into the great information revolution based on microchip and computer technology.
Chancellor Ignatieff emphasizes the need for global unity and cooperation to address current and future challenges. His overarching message is one of collaboration, responsibility and proactive adaptation to ensure a better future for all. He says, “We must hold governments accountable and work through organizations for better responses. Each of us must engage to avoid chaos. This conference is a step towards that.”
TRANSCRIPT
Video Duration: 4:19
Love conveys survival benefits
(The unidentified speaker is a psychiatrist)
For the first time in our 4,000,000 years of evolution, we have the possibility of producing and distributing enough to go around, not just of things, but of imagination, of opportunity, and all that is required for a truly human fulfillment for every person on this planet.
The speaker observes that “this is the most marvelous moment in which to be alive.” He points out that humanity has now reached the capacity to produce and distribute enough material goods and opportunities for everyone. He advocates a return to the values of mutual care and love, citing anthropologist Ashley Montague’s definition of love as, “the conferring of survival benefits on the loved one in a creatively enlarging manner, sometimes at considerable cost to the lover.” He concludes his talk with the pronouncement that “Love is not just an emotion, it’s a deed.”
TRANSCRIPT
Video Duration: 5:44
Reflecting on the Congress’ Spirit and Success
Congress coordinators Chris Aspinall and Suzanne Anderson reflect on the experiences and insights they gained from the Congress. They emphasize the importance of collective effort, the strong sense of community and belonging among participants and the positive responses from delegates, volunteers and attendees. Their overall assessments underscore the dedication and collaborative spirit of the participants, which were crucial in making the conference a success.
TRANSCRIPT
Video Duration: 7:07
Summary Report Part 1
Gail Moore presents the first of a two-part summary of the Congress’ findings. There are three main topics.
1. Self-Realization: Fostering spiritual growth, inner peace and loving relationships,
2. Collaborative communities: Creating communities that emphasize cooperation, education, responsible decision-making and sustainable practices. And
3. Global Unity: Promoting a sense of planetary belonging, respect for diversity, human rights and enhanced communication. The report underscores the importance of personal development, community collaboration and global integration as essential components for a better future.
TRANSCRIPT
Video Duration: 5:50
Summary Report Part 2
This second of the two-part report addresses four key global issues and proposes holistic, collaborative solutions:
1. Arms Race: Focuses on disarmament and rethinking security, suggesting local actions, peace promotion and establishing peace-focused government departments.
2. Ecology and Environment: Highlights concerns about resource misuse and environmental degradation. Recommends holistic education, ecological awareness and sustainable practices.
3. Economics: Discusses issues like irresponsible choices and resource monopolization. Proposes local autonomy, ethical economic decisions and reassessing spending priorities.
4. Population and Agriculture: Covers inadequate education, food distribution and environmental impacts. Suggests decentralized agriculture, bioregional systems and policy transformation.The report calls for compassionate, cooperative policies, emphasizing spiritual guidance, education and sustainability for a better world.
TRANSCRIPT
Video Duration: 13:51
The Good News Panel
A panel of media representatives present a simulated news broadcast discussing the state of the universe, focusing on the Earth where humans are the only malfunctioning species. It highlights the planetary congress where delegates emphasize individual responsibility, love and cooperation in addressing global issues. Key initiatives include the creation of Friends World College and various educational and environmental programs worldwide. Several delegates are interviewed, and the broadcast concludes with positive news stories about efforts to promote global awareness and positive change.
TRANSCRIPT
Video Duration: 17:34
Delegate Perspectives
Delegates and others attending the Planetary Initiative Congress take advantage of an open microphone to express their views on the experience to the larger body. Key themes include the need for broader global representation, self-funding, expanding membership and improving communication. Speakers emphasize the importance of supporting grassroots efforts, redefining the organization’s mission towards global education and creating new social and political structures. The comments also highlight the significance of consensus-building and the need for local initiatives sensitive to cultural differences. Overall, the speakers reflect aspirations and practical suggestions for fostering global cooperation and local action within the Planetary Initiative.
TRANSCRIPT
Video Duration: 21:20