URBAN

RSA's New Strapline

• The RSA introduces a new strapline: 'Twenty First Century Enlightenment'.

• This concept reflects a modern interpretation of Enlightenment values from the eighteenth century.

Understanding Enlightenment

• The original Enlightenment was not a singular movement with a clear beginning or end.

• It embodies core ideals that shaped contemporary values, norms, and lifestyles.

• Emphasizes a cultural process akin to psychotherapy, examining the evolution of societal values.

Cultural Psychotherapy

• Delving into the collective consciousness informs us of current societal values and their relevance.

• Critical exploration of whether Enlightenment values continue to serve us.

• Adapting to the 21st century requires thinking differently and gaining new perspectives.

Insights into Human Nature

• Modern insights from various scientific disciplines challenge our understanding of self.

• Historical figures like Copernicus and Galileo revolutionized our view of the universe, correlating with new insights into human behavior.

• Many social interactions occur automatically, undermining the notion of fully conscious decision-making.

• A shift toward seeing ourselves as interconnected with society rather than wholly autonomous.

The Importance of Social Connections

• Happiness is significantly influenced by the happiness of friends rather than individual efforts alone.

• Recognizes human frailties; promoting a balance between personal agency and social influence.

Self Awareness and Autonomy

• Understanding our behaviors enhances our ability to exercise self-control.

• Distinction between needs vs. appetites fosters personal growth.

• Encourages a developmental perspective rooted in recognizing one's reactions without being controlled by them.

The Role of Empathy in Society

• There’s potential to expand empathy despite setbacks in the last century.

• Historical trends show a decline in person-to-person violence and improved social attitudes regarding race, gender, and sexuality.

• Global events and media foster connections and empathy for distant suffering.

Challenges to Expanding Empathy

• Current global issues raise questions about whether empathy expansion has plateaued.

• Economic inequality and ethnic tensions are on the rise, challenging social cohesion.

• Policies on globalization and immigration need balancing to foster community empathy.

Future Generational Challenges

• Future generations face significant challenges, possibly tougher than those faced by their parents.

• Growing empathy is crucial for addressing global issues and fostering long-term solutions over short-term benefits.

The Role of Education and Progress

• Education is considered a critical resource in the global knowledge economy.

• Progress measured in terms of happiness and well-being indicates improvement since the Enlightenment.

• Ethical reasoning is paramount to understanding the true meaning of progress and welfare.

Re-evaluating Progress and Well-being

• Questions arise on whether progress truly equates to improving welfare.

• A call to transcend simplistic views of freedom, justice, and progress.

• Need to reconnect individual identity and societal roles with political and philosophical discourses.

Creative Engagement for Positive Change

• Creativity offers countless opportunities for impact but faces distractions.

• Advocates for a mindset rejecting negativity and rigid thinking.

• Quotes Margaret Mead as a reminder of the power of committed individuals in enacting change.

• Reinforces the notion that small, thoughtful groups can indeed change the world, remaining true to Enlightenment ideals.