According to dictionaries and most definitive sources, voluntarism is…
the perspective or ideology that suggests any and all actions and interactions be generated from a higher level of thought and be acted upon voluntarily.
When looking at a complex human element, like relations or interactions, and breaking everything down to the most basic moral understandings, many of us can agree on these common values; anti-violence and responsibility of self.
We are personally responsible for our actions, and choosing to act out of violence is deemed immoral.
These are the same principles of voluntarism, a rapidly growing philosophy being adopted more and more by people across the globe. Let’s dive deeper to get a better understanding of its implications.
It’s probably one of the most basic philosophies. There are no rules or practices, just the application of understanding.
Voluntarists are often categorized as anarchists, for they go against ideas and systems of government. The only one truly in control of your life and body is you.
Every action, every word, everything you do is your responsibility alone. With that being said, interaction and relations should also be based on voluntary will.
The concept of a free trade market is also implied here. When transactions are based on equal exchange, it’s up to those involved to barter and determine fair values. Thus, creating more opportunity for necessary exchanges.
The only thing that goes against voluntarist notions is violence. We have the moral responsibility to make choices and interact without force or causing harm, with the exception of self defense.
It’s easy to spot similarities between festival communities and the ideas of a voluntary society. Lucidity demonstrates this quite effectively by how they run their entire operation.
By motivating volunteers and exchanging through compensation, they’re able to build and pick up after an entire pop-up city, capable of sustaining thousands for the weekend!
The services and accommodations are carefully organized by an eager group of volunteers. From the kitchen crew, green team, the family garden hosts, to the medical/emergency tent, everyone pitches in, contributing highly valued help.
The conservation efforts are impactful and trendy too.
There’s physical conservation going on during the event. Through energy and resource conserving hand washing stations, volunteers actively directing recycling and waste sorting, words of encouragement rippling through the grounds, and the “Better Than You Found It” practice solidifying in the minds of many.
You might even catch some attendees referring to garbage as “MOOP”. This is a term rooted in Burning Man culture, meaning Matter Out Of Place. It’s the coolest thing seeing this attitude trickle down and inspire new excitement for making an impact. Making our home just a little cleaner. A little greener.
Among the many festivals pioneering green living and consent culture, Lucidity helps cultivate an attitude amongst its attendees that brings voluntary and consensual participation into every interaction we share.
It advocates for allowing people to be who they are.
It allows for us to peacefully come together as a community through consensual interaction, with so much diversity.
And most importantly, it works to unite us as a species, to embrace this life with peace, love, unity, and respect for each other and our earth.
Grab your tickets to Lucidity here!
PO BOX 6616, Santa Barbara, CA