Created by: Mathias Bolt Lesniak Creative advisor: Jeffrey A. “jam” McGuire
Welcome to the Open Source Utopia Podcast, episode five. Today's topic is democracy,
but also a related term:
Utopia. Let's look at utopia. The term “utopia“ was coined in the 1500s, but it has been a topic for philosophers … … since time immemorial. The perfect way to organize and run society. Impossible to attain, but forever sought. You know what I'm talking about. For thousands of years … … philosophers have said the best … … mode of government would be … … “the wise man's rule.” A benevolent dictator that makes … … all the decisions for us. Open source projects usually start out this way. The project founder sets the course … … and makes all the major decisions. However, we all know there is no perfect wise man. It's better to spread the load … … and collaborate on the decision making. In comes democracy, utopia's realistic cousin. For an open source project to work, the community has to play a central role … … in the decision-making processes. Decisions should represent a common understanding. It doesn't have to be a deep conviction … … for everyone. It's enough if people think … … it brings the project forward, towards the common goal. Sometimes, it might mean doing something … … that doesn't bring you forward, but that is important for someone else. Being able to do that … … is the core of a working democracy. Open source can be an important tool … … for developing democracy skills. Exciting! More about that in the next episode.