Just want to get the ball rolling on a discussion about spreading democracy within SL. I will have more to say soon, but let me clarify a few of my thoughts that I think could be worked into the Simplicity platform.
WHY: Democracy is the best way to understand and act on the will of the governed. It is the best answer to hyper-capitalism on the one hand, or tyranny on the other hand. The CDS is in the best position to prove, promote, and support democracy across the grid, based on its experience and collected expertise. Supporting the creation of different types of government will encourage experimentation and innovation, and the best ideas and techniques can rise to the top more quickly.
WHERE: The easiest and most effective place to promote democracy is among likeminded sim-based communities. But should democratic governance exist only on privately owned islands? At the moment, it seem that unfortunately it is only really possible there. However, the Simplicity Party wants to explore ways to promote democratic governance on the mainland as well.
HOW: The CDS should organize an ongoing discussion among interested parties which would explore what new democratic communities might need to start and to thrive. Some of these needs might include:
- The ability to pay tier for their sim or land.
- Publicity to draw in new citizens and businesses.
- Publicity for events and notable happenings in the sim.
- Help with setting up branches of the government.
- Appeal to a larger body in case of special need or unusual circumstances.
- Good faith agreements that make their laws and systems more meaningful outisde of their sim(s).
- Architectural/logistical help.
- Land management / covenant system.
- Shared voice with LL .
- Better Business Bureaux.
- Budgeting assistance.
As part of this discussion, the CDS should create guides, gather experts willing to work as consultants, and consider how else it might help new democratic communities.
WHEN: The CDS should begin the discussions during the upcoming RA term and by the end of the term have materials prepared to help others. As other communities develop, the CDS should become an equal partner with those communities in creating a UN-like organization to further the work began.