Imagining civil society as a living organism, it’s natural to expect it will strive to return to a previously perceived stable state. However, much like many organisms in nature, our society is capable of adapting to new realities as part of its journey towards survival and growth. To support the evolution of our democracy, we must embrace and guide social change, fostering new relationships to enhance understanding across our differences.
My research focuses on the transformative processes within learning networks, which are informal groups that prioritize mutual learning. In times of complex crises, individuals in these networks take the initiative to disrupt their established social patterns, forging new relationships that bridge ideological, institutional, and geographical divides. Such collaboration can lead to the development of new fields, innovative ideas, and even entirely new organizations. A notable example is the Fire Adapted Communities Learning Network, which united diverse individuals aiming to enhance community resilience to wildfires, each offering unique perspectives on the challenges faced.
The wisdom of the ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus reminds us that change is the only constant in life. Similarly, Martin Luther King Jr. highlighted that change requires active struggle rather than passively awaiting its arrival. Yet, human communities often exhibit innate tendencies to resist change. Climate change exemplifies this phenomenon, as many people tend to overlook its mounting evidence and implications until the impacts become undeniable and disruptive.
Nature provides a vivid illustration of change through the concept of the rhizome, a term used to describe underground plant systems that can be both invasive and beautiful. Rhizomes thrive beneath the surface, interconnected and decentralized, breaking through barriers in their own time. This dynamic is applicable to understanding social change as a complex, non-linear process.
The rhizome metaphor emphasizes that rebuilding rigid structures does not lead to meaningful change. Instead, we must engage in grassroots efforts to create learning networks, branch out, and overcome obstacles. By actively participating in civic life and fostering relationships with individuals across various social and political backgrounds, we can reshape our vision for the future and harness our collective potential.
Although connecting across our differences can be daunting, especially during gatherings such as Thanksgiving, stepping outside our comfort zones can yield transformative results. Rather than clinging to familiar spaces that reinforce our existing beliefs, we can find reassurance in the idea that change often occurs through unseen, foundational efforts. By seeking out new perspectives and building relationships that challenge our assumptions, we can each contribute to the birth of a new social movement.
By encouraging ourselves and others to take risks and embrace disruption, we can cultivate friendships that facilitate learning and growth. This approach may very well lead us towards a hopeful and innovative future, one that is shaped by inclusive participation and shared understanding.
In summary, one must recognize the value of learning networks in contributing to societal change, leveraging diverse voices, and ultimately embracing the complex changes that shape our collective future.