First I made an quickscan analysis of my perception of the world with the fragments of knowledge I had collected. Statistics, experience, stories, pictures, all kind of information. My general impression: I miss sense and sensibilty in our society and the organisation of our society, but on the other hand: many individuals and networks are introducing inspiring initiatives.
Europa evolves in the direction of the US. An increasing gap between the few rich and the many poor people. Reduction in government that repels jobs to the market (privatizations of government enterprises) or to the citizens, for example the care of elder people. Cuts in social services, also called the demolition of the welfare state. A strong bond between business and government, which is detrimental for the citizens, for example the lobby circuit and the very low taxes for big companies. Higher corporate profits, but wages remain flat.
These tendencies are unmistakeble. The big majority, de middle-class, supports the system, because at this stage they still live in prosperity. But they can easily been sacked now, while benefits are lower and shorter. Immigration helps to freeze or lower the wages, particularly of low-paid jobs.
Is there any protest? Yes, in the Netherlands one third of the voters supports a protest party. In all layers of society is debate about the the status of the indirect democracy. Across Europe political parties lose many members, which undermines their legitimacy. Voters have no alternative for the parties, but you never know what they will perform of their party program, because they make a coalition and everything can change, every promise can be withdrawn. Therefore the need for a direct democracy is growing. It's possible in this computer area, but this reformation will take a long time. Most politicans are reluctant. They consider themselves as the experts.
Calculation and control have deeply invaded society. A nurse has x minutes to give a patient a shower, a driver has to deliver y packages an hour. It is efficient, but many people hate their jobs due to the increasing control. They lost the possibility to fix it in their own way, which gave them pleasure and proud. Now they feel themselves reduced to a robot.
First question is often: how much does it cost?, but it should be: how much is the value? Money is only a practical way of calculating a value. The tendency to reduce everything to money value is widespread and will be even stronger. In this money orientated society many people feel themselves strangers. Others, for example the management class, feel like a fish in water. Calculation is the dominant religion of this time and it's believers are narrow minded yet powerful.
Toisca wants to promote sensibility for basic human experiences: the power of light, a color, material, or shape. I believe a greater sensibilty in society will also lead to more sense. This change in of consciousness will help to realize neccesary corrections in society. Sensibility is the basis of every expression of beauty or joy, of pain, rage or sorrow. Everything is better than indifferent calculation, than lovelessness. Maybe I will realize some projects in the future, but the presentations already offer a clear impression of the proposals.
Toisca has no power at all, nevertheless this is the way I hope to contribute. I ultimately found my destination.
