http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com Dr Nicholas Beecroft explores the future of Western Civilisation Sun, 24 Feb 2013 14:46:49 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.1 Psychiatrist Dr Nicholas Beecroft explores the Future of Western Civilisation through a series of interviews with visionary leaders. I want us to rejuvenate our energy, direction and self-confidence as a civilisation. My mission is to create a positive, appreciative space in which leaders at the evolutionary edge of our civilisation can share their experience and set out their vision for our future to inspire others.  They are visionaries sewing the seeds of future transformation, all genuine, creative, courageous people who really care about who we are and where we’re going. By “civilisation”, I mean Western Civilisation- the one I’ve lived in; to one that’s transformed the world over the last 500 years; the one that’s gone global; the one that faces enormous threats, challenges and has the unprecedented opportunity to evolve to a really amazing future. When there’s so much changing all at once, old structures failing and a huge array of emerging threats, that all generates a lot of anxiety, pessimism and fear which distract us from putting energy into creating new solutions, generating new ideas and envisioning a better future. Behind the News Headlines, usually quietly, under the radar, there’s a lot of good stuff going on; the seeds of the future taking root in the present. There are lots of evolutionaries trying out new ideas, new technologies, new ways of organising and more integrated, conscious & balanced ways of thinking and being. Western Civilisation has been supremely successful in all kinds of ways of which we should be enormously proud. Science, technology, industrialisation, democracy, individual rights, personal freedom, property rights, the rule of law, Christianity, humanism, organisation, capitalism, feminism, civil rights, philosophy, music, art, even Imperialism have all, on balance, transformed the world for the better and have created new life conditions with new challenges and problems. In some cases, these advances had nasty side effects and some have become imbalanced. In others, they have replaced older structures and beliefs and many babies have been lost with the bathwater. Human civilisation is made up of human beings who are conscious beings and physical animals, all interconnected like a shoal of fish or a flock of birds. I’ve interviewed a huge range of people across a variety roles, professions, beliefs, politics, status, nationalities, religions, social classes and backgrounds. What is crystal clear to me is that whilst the world we live in is hyper-complex, we operate in it using a kind of mini-map of our civilisation in our minds which we used to navigate through the world, guided by our inner compass of intuition and rational thought. It is astonishing how similar these inner maps are and the patterns are clear. This is how we self-organise in what is a complex living system- just like a bee hive or wildebeest migration. Now we are super-connected by the internet, media and travel. We carry in our pockets access to billions of people and to just about all the knowledge that ever existed. Turning inwards we have access to to our instinctive intuition, heart, wisdom, common sense and judgement. Put together, that represents vast human potential and the most amazing opportunity for personal and cultural evolution ever. Looked at like that, just about all of our shared challenges and threats are solvable and a much better world is highly realistic. We’re engaged in conscious evolution of ourselves and our civilisation. There are a huge range of threats and challenges to The West and to the whole World. People focus their attention on different ones depending on their situation, beliefs and emotional make-up. The list is pretty depressing and overwhelming- so I’ve turned it into a list of positive questions instead. Dr Nicholas Beecroft no Dr Nicholas Beecroft nicholas@nicholasbeecroft.com nicholas@nicholasbeecroft.com (Dr Nicholas Beecroft) Exploring the Future of Western Civilisation news, world, sport, UK, US, love, American, life, meaning, America, English, West http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/FoWC-Thumb-95k.jpg http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com TV-G http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/politicaldialogue/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/politicaldialogue/#comments Wed, 25 Jul 2012 18:05:27 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=2452 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/politicaldialogue/feed/ 1 Nicholas Beecroft, Civilisation, Civilization, Culture wars, dialogue, transpartisan, politics, Phil Neisser, Jacob Hess, liberals, conservatives “You're not as crazy as I thought. (but you're still wrong) Conversations between a Devoted Conservative and a Die-Hard Liberal” by Phil Neisser & Jacob Hess is an inspiring attempt by its authors to show how we can move beyond the energy sapping confl... “You're not as crazy as I thought. (but you're still wrong) Conversations between a Devoted Conservative and a Die-Hard Liberal” by Phil Neisser & Jacob Hess is an inspiring attempt by its authors to show how we can move beyond the energy sapping conflict between left and right, conservative and liberal and other political polarities. They demonstrate that at the very least it's possible for liberals and conservatives to come to a position of mutual understanding and respect. They show that it is possible for us to integrate the best, the healthy strands of different political dimensions into an integrated whole. Phil describes himself as a leftist and a liberal (in the American sense of the word) and Jacob is a Christian Conservative and proud Mormon. They had both grown tired of the culture wars in which the left and right have become ever more polarised, sometimes to the degree of mutual hatred and always to the detriment of America. Similar processes are found around the world. They set about the disciplined process of identifying the many subjects about which they had strongly opposing views and, one by one, they patiently listened to one another until they fully understood each other's positions. The subject which they found most contentious was the case for gay marriage. We took that as a case example in which each set out their view and then described the process they went through. In fact, as the interviewer, I had quite a hard job to try to stimulate any tension, emotional triggers or conflict as a way of demonstrating their positions and polarity original. This is because they've done such a good job of working through the issue that they can now very comfortably discuss it in a very mature, reasoned, nuanced way in which they fully respect the position of the other. They could even see some ways forward on the subject which may offer breakthrough. I invited them to explore the challenges faced by the West, particularly Europe, as a result of high levels of immigration of Muslims at a time when Islam is going through a very turbulent phase of its adaptation to the modern world.  As a Mormon, Jacob is a member of a religious minority which is quite traditional and conservative, yet successful as living as prosperous, democratic, patriotic Americans. I asked him whether there were any lessons for Muslims in Europe as to how best to make a success of integrating into Western society without compromising their religion and values.  He said that Mormons had suffered a great deal of persecution both historically and currently and he felt that Christians and Mormons in particular have a lot in common with Muslims. If anything, he felt that globally that the fault line was not between Christians and Muslims but rather between religious people and secular people. He felt that one of the key things in enabling successful integration is to see the humanity in the person and group with which one does not agree. He gave examples of that and showed how it had softened his position on many subjects whilst still remaining true to himself and his beliefs. I asked Phil to say how he navigates between being open,  tolerant and accepting of diversity whilst also being willing to assert some values as better than others. He draws the line at the use of coercion and violence. He believes that people should be free to live as they choose including living according to their religious beliefs but that they should not be permitted to impose those upon others. We discussed the reluctance of some of us to assert our values for fear of being accused of being racist, Islamophobic or similar. Jacob described how he, as a Mormon, has learned to have great self-confidence in asserting his beliefs as the truth. He spent 2 years traveling around Brazil knocking on doors to share his truth. He believes that everybody should be confident to do that as well as also being free to disagree. In fact, Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 1:14:10 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/future-of-western-civilization-progress-report-melanie-mortiboys/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/future-of-western-civilization-progress-report-melanie-mortiboys/#comments Mon, 23 Jul 2012 05:29:58 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=2439 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/future-of-western-civilization-progress-report-melanie-mortiboys/feed/ 0 news, world, sport, UK, US, love, American, life, meaning, America, english, west Melanie Mortiboys interviews Dr Nicholas Beecroft for this Progress Report on the project exploring the Future of Western Civilization. You can see the rest of this series on this website, at YouTube, Vimeo and on iTunes. Melanie Mortiboys interviews Dr Nicholas Beecroft for this Progress Report on the project exploring the Future of Western Civilization. You can see the rest of this series on this website, at YouTube, Vimeo and on iTunes. Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 1:33:22 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/europe-deep-shifts/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/europe-deep-shifts/#comments Wed, 18 Jul 2012 09:07:15 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=2423 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/europe-deep-shifts/feed/ 0 helen titchen beeth, nicholas beecroft, western, civilisation, europe, EU, women, femininity, evolution, culture, community Helen Titchen Beeth is an evolutionary leader operating at the heart of Europe as a linguist and change consultant in the European Union Commission headquarters in Brussels. She is a committed European and describes herself as a student and practitione... Helen Titchen Beeth is an evolutionary leader operating at the heart of Europe as a linguist and change consultant in the European Union Commission headquarters in Brussels. She is a committed European and describes herself as a student and practitione... Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 1:06:39 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/petermerry/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/petermerry/#comments Tue, 10 Jul 2012 20:15:41 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=2403 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/petermerry/feed/ 0 Peter Merry, Nicholas Beecroft, Western civilisation, Western civilization, energetics, field, wisdom, alignment, evolution, authority, truth, science Peter Merry is an evolutionary leader who operates at the evolutionary edge of our civilisation. He has spent many years facilitating and leading change in a variety of organisations including traditional corporates and leading-edge transitional organi... Peter Merry is an evolutionary leader who operates at the evolutionary edge of our civilisation. He has spent many years facilitating and leading change in a variety of organisations including traditional corporates and leading-edge transitional organisations. He has been pioneering the practical application of energetics and wisdom including the new technique of systemic energy tuning.  In this interview with Dr Nicholas Beecroft, Peter lays out his big picture vision for the state that were in, the painful death of an old civilisation, and the parallel emergence of a new one. He believes that we are best off if we put our energy fully into the creation and experimental emergence of this new civilisation. There is no guarantee of a positive outcome but there are enough signs of evolutionary change to be optimistic. Peter strongly believes in the theory of Spiral Dynamics Integral which says that people will exhibit the values system appropriate to their own developmental stage, adapted to the life conditions in which they find themselves. At the leading edge, people are beginning to understand that we are truly connected as one whole living system which includes the Earth itself. Peter says that by making this perceptual shift we more easily understand the feedback which the Earth is giving us through, for example, climate change so as to enable us to live more in tune with life itself. He believes that there is going to be a rebalancing of consciousness towards a more natural order with healthy, conscious expressions of masculinity and femininity, healthy hierarchies, healthy boundaries within an increasingly self organising living system.  By this, he does not mean a reactionary, traditionalist revival but rather a deeper tuning in to a true nature, fully lined with the underlying natural order. A more enlightened approach to science which integrates wisdom, intuition and complexity is going to be essential in that endeavour. Peter describes how we can integrate the shadow, dark parts of our consciousness as individuals and as a whole in order to liberate our full potential. Peter describes how he uses the technique of systemic energy tuning to work with organisations to maximise the potential through aligning closely with life force and nature. He discusses how that might be applied to harness capitalism for good. Our  world has become so complex that to take a mechanical, problem-solving, reductionist approach becomes ever more complex and difficult. He believes that, amongst others, this technique is part of the simplicity on the other side of complexity. Peter gives his view on the healthy integration of the fast-growing Islamic population in the Netherlands. He does not agree with the ethnocentric solutions offered by Geert Wilders and other “right wing” politicians. However he believes that they provide a useful service in bringing the attention of the previously complacent post-modern political elite to the need for Holland to have a healthy identity, strong structures and conscious, world-centric strategies to make a success out of immigration whilst defending democracy, freedom and pluralism. He is optimistic that the Netherlands will provide a positive role model for other countries in this respect.   Visit Peter’s Website   Discover the world of Peter Merry – the human being, author, speaker, global activist, leader, consultant, trainer, synnervator, human ecologist, father, folk singer, theatre director, rugby trainer, husband, energy worker… Peter wears a number of hats. In his essence, he morphs to fit the need that he feels he is being called to meet in the world today. In that context, the roles he currently plays include: the founder and Chair of the Center for Human Emergence, Netherlands, formed in 2005 to facilitate the Netherlands through the current transition and learn for the world, and a Synnervator in CHE Synnervate; Director of Wisdom University in Europe; Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 1:14:17 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/embodiment/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/embodiment/#comments Sat, 07 Jul 2012 16:48:13 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=2354 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/embodiment/feed/ 0 Embodiment, Mark Walsh, Nicholas Beecroft, Western civilisation, Western civilization, physical, physicality, integration, leadership, embodied, judgement, intuition Mark Walsh is an expert on embodiment. He trains people globally on integrating their bodies into their leadership and way of life. He has done this with people across a whole range of settings from Western corporate life through to the slums of Brazil, Mark Walsh is an expert on embodiment. He trains people globally on integrating their bodies into their leadership and way of life. He has done this with people across a whole range of settings from Western corporate life through to the slums of Brazil... Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 56:46 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/mindfulness/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/mindfulness/#comments Fri, 06 Jul 2012 21:46:55 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=2336 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/mindfulness/feed/ 0 Mindfulness, meditation, awareness, consciousness, presence, leadership, medicine, Nicholas Beecroft, Western civilisation, Western civilization, intuition “Mindfulness” is becoming a fashionable buzzword. However, there’s nothing new about it. It is part of human nature itself.  Mindfulness means paying attention, with intention, to the world as it is with an attitude of equanimity. “Mindfulness” is becoming a fashionable buzzword. However, there’s nothing new about it. It is part of human nature itself.  Mindfulness means paying attention, with intention, to the world as it is with an attitude of equanimity. This means that one focuses one’s attention upon some of the huge array of sensations arising from within ourselves internally and as a result of our sensing the outside world. Equanimity means the attitude of neither craving pleasant sensations nor having aversion to unpleasant sensations. To extent we have to be non-mindful in order to survive. At any time there is a vast amount of information available to us and there’s no way which we could possibly attend to it all. However, in Western civilisation we have a tendency to bias our attention towards a mind, ego, thoughts and external objects. We therefore don’t make the most of the rest of our body, our heart, gut, intuition, sensing, energetic awareness and so on. In addition, we tend to intentionally anaesthetise ourselves with television, junk food, addictions, the Internet, travel, workaholism and so on. We are all mindful from time to time. Sometimes we are awakened by threats such as illness, accident is, threats to our physical security. We have peak experiences such as great sex, fantastic food and celebrations. Nature often brings us to be more mindful whether it be a sunset, sitting round the campfire, walking along the beach watching the  waves or playing whether child. We engineer mindful experiences on purpose such as weddings, funerals and Christmas. There is now a lot of evidence now that mindfulness brings great benefits. For anyone who practices mindfulness, this evidence comes from the direct experience of the benefits in real life. Other evidence comes from the wisdom passed down through tradition built up over centuries or millennia such as the meditation practice in Buddhism, tai chi, Tantra and martial arts. In the last 30 years of so there’s been raft of scientific evidence of the effectiveness of mindfulness practice including mindfulness-based stress reduction which is an 8 week introductory course taught in small groups for one half day a week. This course has been shown to have profound benefits in increasing health, happiness, leadership skills, resilience, freedom, self-discipline, presence, improved eating habits, better self-mastery, reduced relapse of depression and even increased fighting ability of US Marines. Mindfulness comes in a vast number of forms including meditations such as meditations upon the breath, body scan, heart, anger, gut, eating, sounds and visualisations. Movements can be mindful such as walking meditation, 5 rhythms dancing, martial arts and movement medicine. One can meditate upon compassion, prayer or particular intention. Energetics is mindfulness of energy and higher consciousness.  Tantra is mindfulness in the sexual and interpersonal realm. Many people use mindfulness with nature including animals such as equine facilitated learning. Mindfulness has many clinical applications. For example, to the way in which we respond pain, anxiety, mood changes, external events and cravings have a massive impact on our clinical state. It can make all the difference between being disabled and not disabled and determine one’s quality of life. The attached podcast is a recording of a lecture which I gave entitled “Mindfulness for Leaders and Clinicians.” in include some practical examples including breathing meditation, heart meditation, eating meditation and awareness of one’s interpersonal presence. The purpose of the lecture was to give an introduction to mindfulness to whet the appetite and to encourage people to explore for themselves. The many links below include a huge range of different types of mindfulness practices which you can explore. Towards the bottom is a list of some of the academic research on the efficacy of mindfulness.   Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 54:01 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/generation-waking-up-joshua-gorman-on-empowering-youngers-to-lead/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/generation-waking-up-joshua-gorman-on-empowering-youngers-to-lead/#comments Thu, 05 Jul 2012 05:19:34 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=2319 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/generation-waking-up-joshua-gorman-on-empowering-youngers-to-lead/feed/ 0 Joshua Gorman, Beecroft, Western Civilisation, Civilization, Western Civilization, Generation waking up, generation, GenY, Millennials, leadership, identity, empowerment Joshua Gorman is the Founder and Co-Coordinator of Generation Waking Up, a global campaign to ignite a generation of young people to bring forth a thriving, just, and sustainable world. He is author of “Generation Waking Up: How A New Generation Of You... Joshua Gorman is the Founder and Co-Coordinator of Generation Waking Up, a global campaign to ignite a generation of young people to bring forth a thriving, just, and sustainable world. He is author of “Generation Waking Up: How A New Generation Of Young People Is Coming Of Age And Changing Our World.” He is one of the leading voices championing the paradigm-shifting role of the Millennial generation. In this interview with Nicholas Beecroft and Hannah Mortiboys, he shares his personal story of transformation from alienation and woundedness into an inspirational leader. He shares his experience of taking thousands of young people through an empowering leadership programme which invites them to ask: Who are we? Where have we come from? Where are we? What has to change? What do we do now? It’s an exciting venture which is helping to reshape our shared story and empowering emerging leaders. He believes that the Millennial generation (approx 15-30 in 2012) has both some unique characteristics and also has a unique place in history, being born at the time of the first expressions of global consciousness and are coming together to rise to the many challenges which we face. Joshua give some examples of graduates from his program who have gone on to innovate and experiment with new forms of democracy and community which he sees as part of the evolution of our culture. He believes the democracy needs to become more open and transparent. The more that people participate in decision-making, the more motivated they are to participate in the solutions. Whilst the millennial generation are important for providing new leadership, Joshua believes that the initiatives can only succeed through cross-generational collaboration. Generation Waking Up started off in North America but has become a global network. Nevertheless, it is still weighted towards those who speak English, are educated and technologically savvy. He doesn’t think the world will change overnight but he does believe the pace of change is fast. In his work across the world, Joshua sees common threads emerging. Younger people, who are more than 50% of the global population, increasingly see themselves as both local and global in their identification. Whilst belief systems and conditions may vary, a common thread is that emerging leaders are engaging both their hearts as well as their heads as part of the inner compass through complexity. He believes that that is fundamental to healthy outcomes. Part of the empowerment process is in healing old wounds both initial and collective which then enables people to achieve their full potential.  He gives the example of manhood and masculinity. Joshua believes that it is healthy for men to acknowledge the historical abuses of masculine power and the imbalances that that has created. He believes that we have a lot to learn from the feminine and women. He says that the healthy, empowered masculine and feminine are coming up to heal and empower one another. Unlike some who fear a sudden collapse of the West or of American power, Joshua has a much more positive vision and understanding of where were going. He believes that America is evolving to become more leaderful, more open, more diverse and democratic and its role is in supporting and encouraging all the other countries to reach their full potential and take their place in a thriving global community in which America will remain a strong part.   If you would like to go to one of Joshua’s programs or follow his work, then visit Generation Waking Up at www.generationwakingup.org   Joshua helps to steward the work of Generation Waking Up as a whole, and is accountable for strategic planning, organizational governance, leadership & community empowerment, partnerships, Thrive Leadership & Hub program coordination, and trainings. “I grew up in the heart of mainstream, middle-class American culture in the suburbs of Washington, DC. Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 50:19 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/wise-democracy-jim-rough-on-wisdom-choice-creation-and-dynamic-facilitation/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/wise-democracy-jim-rough-on-wisdom-choice-creation-and-dynamic-facilitation/#comments Thu, 28 Jun 2012 04:55:09 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=2307 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/wise-democracy-jim-rough-on-wisdom-choice-creation-and-dynamic-facilitation/feed/ 0 Jim Rough, Nicholas Beecroft, Civilisation, Civilization, Democracy, dialogue, wisdom, facilitation, future, politics, government, strategy Jim Rough is an expert in Wise Democracy. He originated the technique called dynamic facilitation which he now uses with Wisdom Councils in a social process designed to empower large systems of people. In this interview Jim describes how the quality of... Jim Rough is an expert in Wise Democracy. He originated the technique called dynamic facilitation which he now uses with Wisdom Councils in a social process designed to empower large systems of people. In this interview Jim describes how the quality of conversation which really counts along with the people who have that conversation. Dynamic facilitation takes people beyond the traditional debate, dialogue and deliberation into a choice-creating conversation which generates new potential outcomes. The groups work best when drawn randomly from the population. On first inspection that may sound strange because our tradition is to choose experts, representatives and those who have a particular strong opinion or interest group. With years of experience in facilitating the democratic process, Jim has found that there is a deep wisdom which emerges from randomly chosen group taking the mainstream interest and seeking to serve the whole. He finds that a consensus emerges which is often transformational and inspiring to the wider community. He has taught people globally to use this technique any give some examples of work is working well, particularly in Austria. We tend to take democracy for granted is as if it is something which we have already achieved. Jim points out that democracy is something which needs constant evolution, requiring ongoing attention and adaptation to our needs and situation. He makes a powerful call for integrating the dynamic facilitation and wisdom Council process into our existing structures so as to help raise our game to meet the substantial challenges which we face. Visit the Wise Democracy Website Visit the Dynamic Facilitation Website Jim Rough is a consultant, author, speaker and social innovator. He originated Dynamic Facilitation (www.DynamicFacilitation.com), on which he has presented seminars all over the world. Jim  also originated the Wisdom Council as a way to empower large systems of people. This new strategy for achieving democracy is now being implemented by cities, states, organizations and citizen-groups around the world. He is author of the book, Society's Breakthrough! Releasing the Essential Wisdom and Virtue of All the People, cofounder of the nonprofit Center for Wise Democracy (www.WiseDemocracy.org) and for eight years host of “The Jim Rough Show” on community access TV. Jim is a frequent speaker on practical ways to solve impossible problems, like transforming society and reinventing democracy. He demonstrates these approaches as a consultant in organizations.   Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 1:00:01 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/soleira-green-unleashing-human-potential-alignment-energetics-super-connection/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/soleira-green-unleashing-human-potential-alignment-energetics-super-connection/#comments Wed, 13 Jun 2012 07:21:24 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=2278 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/soleira-green-unleashing-human-potential-alignment-energetics-super-connection/feed/ 0 alignment,Authenticity,Authority,Business,Civilisation,coaching,Collaboration and Competition,Community,connection,consciousness,Consciousness & Mindfulness,creativity Soleira Green is a global visionary and co-founder of the Visionary Network.  She is an expert in unleashing human potential, helping people to align with their highest purpose and super connecting to consciousness. She works with individuals, Soleira Green is a global visionary and co-founder of the Visionary Network.  She is an expert in unleashing human potential, helping people to align with their highest purpose and super connecting to consciousness. She works with individuals, groups and businesses as a trainer, coach, speaker and event host. Soleira has written 15 books including Living Consciousness, New Visionaries, The Alchemical Coach and the Evolution of Everything.  Many people talk about these subjects but Soleira and her colleagues have distilled a great deal of practical wisdom into simple how-to guides, manuals and tools. In this interview Soleira describes her highest vision for the future of Western and global civilisation. She believes that we are on an inevitable path to becoming one global civilisation; interconnected and vibrant. She sees lots of evidence that people are increasingly choosing to unleash their own full potential and that this works the best when they are in service of the highest collective goals. This is happening across all generations globally and particularly so amongst the young. She describes how we can avoid the sources of resistance and frustration both internal and external. She believes that our energy is best spent not in resisting those things we dislike or in fighting existing structures but rather by letting them be and creating better structures, better ideas and successful ventures which then allow the old problems to fall away. Should discusses how this might apply to individuals who currently feel powerless or trapped inside old-fashioned systems. Soleira describes how we can access different states of consciousness. She believes that our consciousness it is connected, in fact super connected, to a wider consciousness show with others right from the interpersonal space up to the cosmic level. She works with companies and other organisations to optimise the different aspects of their consciousness to help credit fields within which everyone can align in service of their personal and higher goals. She discusses how this may apply to individuals, healthcare, the financial system and education. Soleira Green is a global visionary and co-founder of the Visionary Network.  She's a trainer, coach, author, speaker and event host, doing pretty much anything that will transform our world into a brilliant unprecedented future.  Find out more and her passions, visions and work at: www.transformingourworld.com and www.soleiragreen.com Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 56:59 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/jordan-macleod/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/jordan-macleod/#comments Sun, 10 Jun 2012 18:55:58 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=2258 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/jordan-macleod/feed/ 0 Occupy, bank, London, business, market, money, finance, evolution, enterprise, Future, investment, competition “Our economy indeed has the potential to transform into our vehicle, our shuttle, for reaching collective prosperity and increasing global integration.”  - Jordan MacLeod is a writer and consultant on the New Economy. “Our economy indeed has the potential to transform into our vehicle, our shuttle, for reaching collective prosperity and increasing global integration.”  Jordan MacLeod is a writer and consultant on the New Economy. He is author of New Currency: How Money Changes the World as We Know It and Founder and Partner of Cornerstone Global Associates, a Strategy Consulting firm based in London. Later this month he is leading cornerstone's launch of a New Economics Unit focused on re-visioning and re-tooling global capitalism. Jordan is also founder and CEO of a startup software company, Strue. In this interview, Jordan puts the current economic crisis in the much bigger context of the evolution of money and financial systems throughout human history. He traces the development of money from the tribal age of barter through to the present digital age where money has been dematerialised. Jordan doesn’t claim to have a single blueprint for the future rather he has been scanning the horizon to see the evidence of our cultural evolution in action. He gives numerous examples of experimentation with new forms of currency and economic system. He gives particular focus to experiments with a method called demurrage which he believes could eliminate our compulsion for exponential growth and shift our focus towards a more co-creative and integrated society.  Jordan doesn’t believe that money or  capitalism are intrinsically bad, but rather our challenge is to revalue and reorganise the way we define money in a way which reflects our current and emerging values.  He envisions what a more self organising living system model of finance would look like and discusses the transition from the current system which would inevitably challenge existing power structures and vested interests. It could well be that the current global dominance of the US dollar may give way to a geopolitical shift to a Chinese-based currency or indeed a basket of multipolar currencies. Jordan thinks that it is more likely  that there will be some kind of bottom-up evolution of a new global currency which will better reflect the distribution of power more broadly around the globe.  He believes that this evolution of a more adaptive financial system is going to be a prime driver of our future security and way of life. He believes that the welfare system is based on entitlement in some Western countries are likely to collapse under their own weight and be replaced with something more empowering and sustainable.   Visit Jordan’s blog “New Currency” Visit Cornerstone Global Associates Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 1:07:41 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/re-humanising-healthcare-dr-robin-youngson-on-compassionate-integrated-healing-healthcare/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/re-humanising-healthcare-dr-robin-youngson-on-compassionate-integrated-healing-healthcare/#comments Wed, 06 Jun 2012 16:37:15 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=2223 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/re-humanising-healthcare-dr-robin-youngson-on-compassionate-integrated-healing-healthcare/feed/ 2 Authenticity,Authority,Beecroft,burnout,Compassion,compassionate healthcare,compassionate medicine,Consciousness & Mindfulness,Dialogue & Listening,healing,health,Healthcare Dr Robin Youngson is an inspiring visionary and catalyst for truly compassionate, holistic, mindful and healing healthcare. Through opening himself and his own personal journey to others, he touches the heart of patients, Dr Robin Youngson is an inspiring visionary and catalyst for truly compassionate, holistic, mindful and healing healthcare. Through opening himself and his own personal journey to others, he touches the heart of patients, healthcare professionals and hospital managers. As founder of Hearts in Healthcare and author of “TIME TO CARE – How to love your patients and your job” he is a powerful advocate for the transformation of healthcare. In this interview, he draws on his frustrating experience of trying to get proper care for his daughter who had been seriously injured and admitted to hospital for 100 days. Within a few hours he went from being a senior doctor, a powerful person in the hospital system, to a disempowered advocate for good care. He describes his own journey from doctor as technician to doctor as a mindful, healer and compassionate human being. Robin shares some of the evidence for holistic, compassionate healthcare and gives examples of where this is already happening. He discusses how he benefitted from taking a mindful approach to his own thoughts, feelings and behaviours and how that radically transformed the healthcare experience for his patients, colleagues and himself. He talks about burnout and cynicism in medical staff. He shares his challenges in trying to reform the healthcare system. He has realized after 15 years of trying that there is no point in trying to persuade people or systems to practice compassionate healthcare. Instead, he has founded a global network of early adopters, passionate advocates and practitioners of caring, healing, holistic healthcare called Hearts in Healthcare. The network enables the sharing of powerful inspiring stories, of good evidence, of techniques that work and experience in transformational change.   Read “Time to Care- How to love your patients and your job” Visit Hearts in Healthcare    Dr Robin Youngson Robin is an anaesthetic specialist in New Zealand who is devoted to strengthening caring and compassion in healthcare. He is the founder of HEARTSinHEALTHCARE.com, a global social movement for health professionals, students, patient activists and all those passionate about re-humanising healthcare. Robin was a founding member of the national Quality Improvement Committee in New Zealand and was the NZ representative on the WHO International Steering Committee for Patient Safety Solutions. He also helped launch the WHO strategy for “People at the Centre of Healthcare” in 2007. He is an honorary senior lecturer at Auckland University and is the author of the newly published book “TIME TO CARE – How to love your patients and your job” Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 1:25:24 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/german-identity-and-patriotism-adrian-wagner-on-the-future-of-western-civilisation-no-25-2/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/german-identity-and-patriotism-adrian-wagner-on-the-future-of-western-civilisation-no-25-2/#comments Wed, 23 May 2012 10:01:10 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=2181 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/german-identity-and-patriotism-adrian-wagner-on-the-future-of-western-civilisation-no-25-2/feed/ 0 Adrian Wagner,assertiveness,Authenticity,Beecroft,boundaries,British-German,Community,Democracy,Deutsch,Deutschland,Dialogue & Listening,Europe Adrian is an emerging German leader. Aged 26, from the Millennial Generation”X,” he writes on social transformation and integral consciousness. In this interview, he discusses German Identity and Patriotism; the state of German consciousness, Adrian is an emerging German leader. Aged 26, from the Millennial Generation”X,” he writes on social transformation and integral consciousness. In this interview, he discusses German Identity and Patriotism; the state of German consciousness, it’s healing and integration. He sets out his highest vision for Germany, the West and Global civilisation. He begins with his personal journey from what he calls a “liberal-left” to an integral consciousness. He describes his experience of processing the shadow cast by the Nazi period and coming to a more healthy, integrated and positive modern German identity and patriotism. Adrian believes that we need a positive, healthy national consciousness alongside our global, personal and other identities. We discuss what constitutes the boundary between a positive patriotism and a darker nationalism and racism. He brilliantly describes the role of healthy boundaries, self-confidence and assertiveness from the individual level to the national level. We test out how this applies to multiculturalism and in particular the integration of the Turkish diaspora into Germany. Does he agree with Chancellor Merkel said that “Multikulti” had failed. What’s a better, more positive vision for the future? Adrian gives his view on how Germany can assume its leadership role in Europe, particularly in the context of the Euro crisis. He finishes with his perspective on the British-German relationship. Adrian Wagner is someone to watch. Whatever path he follows, it’ll be something very interesting and transformational. At age 26, he is already writing on cultural transformation, values and integral world views. He trained in Spiral Dynamics with Don Beck, Theory U with Otto Scharmer, Tai Chi practice in India and at the end of his degree in Social Work. He participated in Field studies in value systems in the Middle East, India and the Philippines.  Currently Adrian is developing with friends the YouthLeaders Program in the "Karma Youth" Project in Germany. He is studying Voice Dialogue with Cordula Mears-Frei and working as a freelancer for several Magazines related to Social Threefolding, integral Theory and Anthroposophy in a postmodern context. Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 1:04:04 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/bishop-michael-nazir-ali-christianity-in-complexity-rejuvenating-democracy-identity-and-authority/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/bishop-michael-nazir-ali-christianity-in-complexity-rejuvenating-democracy-identity-and-authority/#comments Wed, 18 Apr 2012 05:57:52 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=2135 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/bishop-michael-nazir-ali-christianity-in-complexity-rejuvenating-democracy-identity-and-authority/feed/ 0 Authority,Beecroft,Bishop Michael Nazir-Ali,Bishop of Rochester,Britain,British,British Empire,Christ,Christian-Muslim relations,Church of England,Civilisation,Civilization Bishop Michael Nazir-Ali is one of the leading figures in the Church of England. He was the 106th Bishop of Rochester, for 15 years which made him the first non-white Diocesan Bishop in the Church of England. Bishop Michael Nazir-Ali is one of the leading figures in the Church of England. He was the 106th Bishop of Rochester, for 15 years which made him the first non-white Diocesan Bishop in the Church of England. Prior to that he had been Bishop of Raiwind in Pakistan, his country of origin where he had a both Christian and Muslim family background. In 1999 he was elevated to the House of Lords. He has a prodigious academic record with much research into the role of Christianity in a pluralistic world, Christian-Muslim relations and on the teaching of Christianity in the modern world. Now he is President of the Oxford Centre for Training, Research, Advocacy and Dialogue. He courageously supports Christian leadership in many parts of the world where Christians suffer persecution. Bishop MIchael really understands the state we are in the Civilisational challenges we face and has the courage to speak the truth in the face of strong social pressure to stick to the Politically Correct hymn sheet. In this interview, Bishop Michael addresses the State of Western Civilisation; it’s strengths; what’s working really well; the challenges we face. He describes his positive vision for the future- his version of heaven on earth. He believes that we need a spiritual foundation for life and that we are living on past spiritual capital and that Christianity is essential to start regenerating that spiritual capital. Bishop Michael says what he thinks of being spiritual but not religious- whether or not that is an evolutionary step towards towards a global post-Ethnic pure form of spirituality without cultural and historical baggage. Could it be that the C of E is the first post postmodern religion which provides a lead for the others in recognizing their common path and accommodating all- the first post-postmodern, Integral, Global religion? He sets out his conditions for that to be possible. He says we need a shared story of who we are, what we believe, our values and history. He tells his version of that story and his own identity. He celebrates the strengths of Britain and talks about how he personally views the history of the British Empire and how we relate to that today. Clearly he sees Christianity as absolutely the central pillar of our history, identity, culture and values. Bishop MIchael comments upon the muted Western reaction to the persecution of Christians around the world. Why do the Western Elites turn a blind eye? How do we defend our freedoms, democracy and way of life from those who want to force their authoritarian and absolutist way upon us at a time when the pseudoliberal elite have made it at least taboo if not illegal to engage in debate and assert that Western or British values are better and in any case are our own right in our own country? What’s needed to sort out gang violence and social decay? How do we restore the healthy authority of a parent, teacher, policeman, doctor etc?   Visit Bishop Michael Nazir-Ali’s Website   Bio Bishop Michael Nazir-Ali was the 106th Bishop of Rochester, for 15 years, until 1 September 2009. He is originally from Asia and was the first non-white Diocesan Bishop in the Church of England. He was appointed in 1994. Before that he was the General Secretary of CMS from 1989-1994 and prior to holding this position was Bishop of Raiwind in Pakistan. He holds both British and Pakistani citizenship and from 1999 was a member of the House of Lords where he was active in a number of areas of national and international concern. He has both a Christian and a Muslim family background and is now President of the Oxford Centre for Training, Research, Advocacy and Dialogue (OXTRAD). Michael’s secondary education was in Pakistan. He read Economics, Sociology and Islamic History at the University of Karachi, and Theology at Fitzwilliam College and Ridley Hall, Cambridge. His interests have led him to research and study in several fields, Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 49:58 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/love-fear-and-the-destiny-of-nations-richard-barrett/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/love-fear-and-the-destiny-of-nations-richard-barrett/#comments Wed, 11 Apr 2012 09:28:28 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=2112 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/love-fear-and-the-destiny-of-nations-richard-barrett/feed/ 0 accountability,Authenticity,Authority,Barrett Values Centre,Beecroft,Business,Civilisation,Civilization,Compassion,consciousness,Consciousness & Mindfulness,Corporate Soul Richard Barrett’s latest book is Love, Fear and the Destiny of Nations; the impact of the evolution of human consciousness on world affairs. Richard is a leading global expert on the evolution of human values, culture, Richard Barrett’s latest book is Love, Fear and the Destiny of Nations; the impact of the evolution of human consciousness on world affairs. Richard is a leading global expert on the evolution of human values, culture, leadership & consciousness in bus... Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 1:27:16 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/herb-meyers-intelligence-briefing-defending-western-civilisation/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/herb-meyers-intelligence-briefing-defending-western-civilisation/#comments Tue, 20 Mar 2012 05:53:32 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=2091 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/herb-meyers-intelligence-briefing-defending-western-civilisation/feed/ 0 Authority,Beecroft,China,CIA,Cold War,Collaboration and Competition,defence,defense,Democracy,Economics & Capitalism,Education,Freedom of Speech Herbert E. Meyer served  during the Reagan Administration as Special Assistant to the Director of Central Intelligence and Vice Chairman of the CIA’s National Intelligence Council.  In these positions, he managed production of the U.S. Herbert E. Meyer served  during the Reagan Administration as Special Assistant to the Director of Central Intelligence and Vice Chairman of the CIA’s National Intelligence Council.  In these positions, he managed production of the U.S. National Intelligence Estimates and other top-secret projections for the President and his national security advisers.  Mr. Meyer is widely credited with being the first U.S. Government official to forecast the Soviet Union’s collapse -- a forecast for which he later was awarded the U.S. National Intelligence Distinguished Service Medal, which is the Intelligence Community’s highest honor. In this interview with Dr Nicholas Beecroft, Herb says why Western Civilisation is worth defending, why it’s the best civilisation so far and why it’s fast becoming THE global civilisation. He is very optimistic for the future but believes that the biggest challenge we face is in helping all of the rest of the world make it into modernity whilst minimising dangerous threats. He draws upon his experience in the vanguard of the defeat of the Soviet Communist system to inform our strategy to deal with existing challenges including Islamic Fundamentalism, Iran, Russia, demographic collapse, lack of faith in our civilisation, energy security and the domestic culture war. Mr. Meyer is author of How to Analyze Information and The Cure for Poverty. Formerly an associate editor of FORTUNE, he has authored several books including The War Against Progress, Real-World Intelligence, and Hard Thinking.  Mr. Meyer and his wife, Jill, are co-authors of How to Write, which is among the world’s most widely used writing handbooks. Mr. Meyer’s essays on Intelligence and Politics have been published in The Wall Street Journal, National Review Online, Policy Review and The American Thinker. Mr. Meyer is host and producer of The Siege of Western Civilization, a DVD that outlines the threats to America’s security, economy, and culture. These days, Mr. Meyer is a popular speaker on the lecture circuit.  He delivers his overview of global trends and developments, entitled What in the World is Going On?, to corporations, business associations, student organizations and public affairs groups throughout the world. Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 1:23:19 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/peggy-holman-engaging-emergence-turning-upheaval-into-opportunity/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/peggy-holman-engaging-emergence-turning-upheaval-into-opportunity/#comments Thu, 01 Mar 2012 06:11:41 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=2027 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/peggy-holman-engaging-emergence-turning-upheaval-into-opportunity/feed/ 0 AI,appreciative inquiry,Authenticity,Authority,Beecroft,Collaboration and Competition,collective intelligence,Community,Compassion,complex challenges,Confidence,Democracy Peggy Holman is a leading global expert in social technologies that engage “whole systems” of people from organizations and companies to communities in creating their own future. Her book The Change Handbook is a definitive how-to manual of 61 such eng... Peggy Holman is a leading global expert in social technologies that engage “whole systems” of people from organizations and companies to communities in creating their own future. Her book The Change Handbook is a definitive how-to manual of 61 such engagement processes. Peggy is co-founder of Journalism that Matters. Most recently, her book Engaging Emergence: Turning Upheaval into Opportunity is “A roadmap for tackling complex challenges, Engaging Emergence provides stories, principles, and practices for inviting people to come together and turn disruptions into possibilities.” In this interview with Dr Nicholas Beecroft, Peggy gives her optimistic account of the emergence of a new civilisation by a broad base of people experimenting with new ways of being and doing. She describes how she thinks we can boost our cultural direction and self-confidence and sets out her highest vision for Western Civilisation. She says what’s great about America and the West right now- what we should preserve and build upon. She discusses the use of group processes to catalyse the evolution of our culture. Peggy believes that democracy is continuing to evolve for the better through increasing self-authorship. She describes Appreciative Inquiry, Open Space Technology and World Cafe. Peggy gives her view on how we can integrate the dark, shadow side of our history so as to unlock our power and potential. Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 1:06:17 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/neil-howe-predicts-the-future-with-generational-theory/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/neil-howe-predicts-the-future-with-generational-theory/#comments Thu, 23 Feb 2012 00:31:55 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=1999 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/neil-howe-predicts-the-future-with-generational-theory/feed/ 0 13th Generation,Artists,Awakening,Beecroft,Boomers,Business,Community,Confidence,Crisis,Education,Evolution,Family Neil Howe is a historian, economist, and demographer. He is Founding Partner and President of Life Course Associates. Neil is a renowned global authority on generations- who today’s generation are, what motivates them and how they will shape our future. Neil Howe is a historian, economist, and demographer. He is Founding Partner and President of Life Course Associates. Neil is a renowned global authority on generations- who today’s generation are, what motivates them and how they will shape our future. He advises companies, governments and investors. He coauthored “Generations,” and “13th Gen”- about Generation X. He originally coined the term "Millennial Generation" in “Millennials Rising.” “The Fourth Turning” comes from an amazing piece of scholarly study which found cyclical patterns in generational behaviour, values and culture 400 years back into Anglo-American History. Published in 1997 reads as if he already knew about Sept 11 and the coming financial crisis. It’s an astonishingly accurate read about the present. In this interview with Dr Nicholas Beecroft, Neil explains the theory and sets out his observations of the current stage of the generational cycle during this “Fourth Turning” crisis period. He describes the interactions between all the various generations and predicts how the future in areas as diverse as security, immigration, family life and spiritual values. He discusses the implications for policy makers, investors and strategists as well as describing the leadership context, especially for the Boomers, Gen X and Millennial Generations. Neil says that whilst East Asia is in synch with Western Generations, the Islamic world is slightly out of synch which has huge implications for understanding current and future geopolitics. He gives some specific consulting advice for this project, the Future of Western Civilisation. Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 1:14:41 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/don-beck-on-the-master-code-the-hidden-dynamics-that-shape-individuals-design-organisations-and-transform-societies/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/don-beck-on-the-master-code-the-hidden-dynamics-that-shape-individuals-design-organisations-and-transform-societies/#comments Wed, 22 Feb 2012 08:37:44 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=1930 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/don-beck-on-the-master-code-the-hidden-dynamics-that-shape-individuals-design-organisations-and-transform-societies/feed/ 0 Authenticity,Authority,biopsychosocial,Business,change,Clare Graves,cohesion,Collaboration and Competition,Compassion,Confidence,Consciousness & Mindfulness,cultural codes Dr Don Beck interviewed by Dr Nicholas Beecroft on "The Master Code: The Hidden Dynamics that Shape Individuals, Design Organisations and Transform Societies" and the Future of Western Civilisation. Don wrote the following introduction to this intervie... Dr Don Beck interviewed by Dr Nicholas Beecroft on "The Master Code: The Hidden Dynamics that Shape Individuals, Design Organisations and Transform Societies" and the Future of Western Civilisation. Don wrote the following introduction to this interview: “The real question deals with the "Rise and Fall and then Rise" of Western perspectives on "civilization."    I have often wondered why the so-called "Western  Civilization" appeared to ascend in terms of complexity to "commanding heights" during the last few hundred years. This does not mean at all the "Westerners" are better humans, or should dominate any other social or geographic grouping.  The work by Alfred. W. Crosby in 'The Measure of Reality:Quantification and Western Society 1250-1600 offers one reason.  This activity replaced many of the myths, superstitions and fables with hard facts, the scientific method, and rationality. This was especially apparent in the field of medicine. It help give rise to the Age of Science and the birth and spread of the 5th Code of modernity. Add into the equation the stability, discipline, high ethics and ordered thinking from The 4th Code, and you have the Puritan value system. This is neither magic nor arrogance but does explain the transitions from pre-modern to modern. The English language helped, as did the strong and positive growth themes inherent in both Jewish and Christian thought. The celebration of life, in the present, and the hope of a heaven in an afterlife, can be strong elixirs. This does not mean everything was perfect and Civilization emerged as we climbed the ladder of "success" and material gain with all the displays of abundance. But it does suggest that this world-view also contained a repair kit in spite of failures and negative consequences to the rest of the world. Western Civilization continued to leap into new manifestations to add "post modern" to the evolutionary flow. And, in my view, that is the critical aspect of its over all code. Adam Smith clearly combined morality and a purpose filled society as a foundation for his promotion of the "invisible hand" that will raise all the boats. But we have also learned that if such a 'hand" extends from a sleeve full of greed, corruption, and wasteful extravagance, lit will self-destruct, as it has in recent decades. Same goes with simplistic versions of the 6th and humanitarian code that, alas, disrupted the critical contributions of the 4th (traditional-sacred) and 5th (materialistic-secular) which, when in balance, do the heavy lifting of populations as they deal with fundamental challenges and threats, producing sink holes in human emergence. Known as 'political correctness," it provide a false picture on what diversity really means. Our 21st Century society is full of examples. There is far greater expressions of caring and human sensitivity within the 7th and 8th Level thinking patterns. Yet, I firmly believe that the codes within Western Civilizations will now re brand themselves, re calibrate their range and scope, and adapt their essential components  in a positive manner within the language, culture, religions and traditions of the entire Earth Society.    Herein lies the power within the 7th Code, the capacity to re frame the 1st Tier assemble of adaptive intelligences while generating The Master Code, designed to deal with global issues that confront us all. When Professor Clare Graves spoke of the "momentous leap" of human nature, this is what he had in mind. We all have serious work to do. New world views await us as we climb the emerging peaks of our own conscious evolution. When the whole Spiral-full of value systems are engaged in dealing with these global issues, we have an opportunity to impact the whole in new dimensions and functions. The siege of 'perfect storms" now needs the brilliance of  new sun rise, with new aspirations, effective tools, and a new and fresh spirit of humanity.” Dr. Don Beck 22nd February 2012. Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 1:41:03 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/the-evolutionary-future-of-us-british-chris-parish-on-the-future-of-western-civilisation-no-18/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/the-evolutionary-future-of-us-british-chris-parish-on-the-future-of-western-civilisation-no-18/#comments Sun, 19 Feb 2012 09:13:25 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=1899 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/the-evolutionary-future-of-us-british-chris-parish-on-the-future-of-western-civilisation-no-18/feed/ 0 UK, english, British, England, Britain, United Kingdom, immigration, identity, patriot, diversity, Patriotism or "Optimism and Patriotism for post-post modern enlightened liberals." - Chris Parish is a leading voice in the emerging field of evolutionary spirituality. Having grown up as a postmodern liberal, he used to feel that patriotism was relic from a byg... or "Optimism and Patriotism for post-post modern enlightened liberals." Chris Parish is a leading voice in the emerging field of evolutionary spirituality. Having grown up as a postmodern liberal, he used to feel that patriotism was relic from a bygone age which had no relevance to the modern world. After all, it was associated with imperialism, racism, war, nationalism so it was best consigned to the history books. However as he travelled the world, he noticed that people from other countries, such as the USA or even liberal postmodern countries like Denmark, had a much more self-confident attitude to their national identity which they could celebrate in an uncomplicated way without feeling racist or backward. He came across a survey of indicators of wellbeing and subjective patriotism in which the British ranked very highly across all the objective measures of success and wellbeing but ranked themselves 104th, along with the Sudan and Yemen, in terms of attitude to their country. He realised that what marked Britain out was its huge fall in status from having been the most successful and dominant power for 200 years up till the middle of the 20th Century, then falling down to the second rank. Modern liberal Britons seemed to have difficulty coming to terms with the weight of this history. In this interview with Dr Nicholas Beecroft, Chris explores the British national identity from an enlightened, liberal, post-postmodern perspective. He discusses the wounds, traumas and shame of past wrongs associated with British patriotism and the way in which we have responded to that, often putting it unconsciously into shadow, unresolved and unintegrated. He unpacks all that and puts it in an integral, developmental, conscious, evolutionary context- understanding the history in its context and connecting our past, present and future as a stream of conscious spirit over time. Finally, he states his own patriotic feelings and beliefs and models how we can confidently embrace our patriotism and tribal parts in this evolutionary, conscious, still liberal, post-postmodern integral world view. Having spent nearly forty years pursuing spiritual illumination and philosophical understanding, he is a close collaborator, partner and student of spiritual teacher and cultural visionary, Andrew Cohen, in teaching Evolutionary Enlightenment: an approach to individual and cultural transformation that combines timeless wisdom with the particular challenges of our moment in history.  Parish is the Managing Director of EnlightenNext UK, a popular speaker, skilled workshop facilitator and well-published author. Visit EnlightenNext Website   Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 1:38:21 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/catalyzing-the-second-renaissance-dr-robin-wood-on-the-future-of-western-civilisation-no-17/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/catalyzing-the-second-renaissance-dr-robin-wood-on-the-future-of-western-civilisation-no-17/#comments Sat, 18 Feb 2012 14:49:38 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=1868 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/catalyzing-the-second-renaissance-dr-robin-wood-on-the-future-of-western-civilisation-no-17/feed/ 0 western, evolution, values, innovation, transformation, collaboration, renaissance, enlightenment, sustainability, evolutionary, biomimicry, emergence Dr Robin Wood is Founder and CEO of the Renaissance 2 Foundation. Imagine living in a Solar Civilisation powered completely by renewable energy, with people living in resilient habitats in tune with nature, operated by enlightened enterprises, Dr Robin Wood is Founder and CEO of the Renaissance 2 Foundation. Imagine living in a Solar Civilisation powered completely by renewable energy, with people living in resilient habitats in tune with nature, operated by enlightened enterprises, wise culture and conscious, integral leadership aligned with a full spectrum of healthy values. Robin believes that crisis catalyses evolution through creativity and that this is the best time ever to be alive. In this interview with Dr Nicholas Beecroft, Robin shares his experience in helping thousands of business leaders and activists tune in to their passion and make their visions come true- to make money while doing good. Robin masters linking an encyclopedic knowledge of the big picture to the individual person and their business or mission. Robin describes his personal identification with Western Civilisation- what it means to him from his start as an anti-Apartheid activist, through consulting in silicon valley to the present day. The discussion includes the leadership tools requires for a “transactivist” and Integral Leader; integrating the wisdom of Africa into the West; the evolution of capitalism, synergising competition and co-operation, rejuvenating democracy, re-inventing the sacred, the emerging leadership of the millennial generation and, finally, his personal impulse for evolution.   Join the Renaissance2 Global Meshwork and Make a Difference  Visit Renaissance 2 website Buy the book from amazon in North & South America Buy the book from amazon in the UK Buy the book from amazon in France Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 1:35:54 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/caring-for-care-homes-a-transformational-culture-change/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/caring-for-care-homes-a-transformational-culture-change/#comments Thu, 09 Feb 2012 09:07:39 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=2009 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/caring-for-care-homes-a-transformational-culture-change/feed/ 0 Care, compassion, values, productivity, reputation, love, leadership, elderly, Healthcare, health, management, leadership Caring For Care Homes are an inspiring team whose social enterprise transforms care homes into heavenly care homes which aim for a high standard of life for elders in residential care. They promote an ethos of love, Caring For Care Homes are an inspiring team whose social enterprise transforms care homes into heavenly care homes which aim for a high standard of life for elders in residential care. They promote an ethos of love, compassion and genuinely valuing people- the residents, the staff, the relatives and the community. They take the leaders, owners and staff through a 3 month transformational programme of individual growth and organisational culture change. They use the latest tools of personal transformation, leadership development and culture change to make Care Homes the kind of place we’d look forward to living in ourselves and where we’d be happy to place our loved ones. They seek to integrate Care Homes with the community including the families, schools, businesses and the wider community. They believe that we should all plan for our old age so as to maximise our chances of being fit enough to enjoy it and to ensure that the best social and business structures are in place to deliver the care we’ll need within a reasonable budget. Between them, they have a wealth of experience and some inspirational vision. In this programme, the team of Georgeanne Lamont, Peter Smith, Angeline Ruredzo, Steve Boley and Masana De Souza are interviewed by Melanie Mortiboys and Nicholas Beecroft as part of the series “Exploring the Future of Western Civilisation” of which we hope that heavenly Care Homes are to be a part. They say, "Imagine a care home where you go in and you see people living life fully. Living: Whether they are still very active or frail, they are involved with life and living it as fully as they are able, not just sitting round the edge of the room numbed out gazing at a TV. However limited they may be in their ability, they are using the resources they have, be it in the kitchen, with an animal, in the garden or laundry, with another person, writing or listening to music. Loving: You see people loving , connecting with each other and caring, pouring out a cup of tea for one another, listening to each other, being patient and kind, giving each other positive surprises like a note of thanks or simply saying thank you. Laughing: You see people laughing with one another : cheerfulness, smiles, fun and laughter are part of what makes life sweet. Never laughing at someone but often laughing with someone brings a sense of happiness. Laughter lightens the load and makes the whole business of growing older much happier. Learning: Curiosity and love of learning keep us young. Learning everyday something new be it about someone’s life in the past, or hopes for the future, some new facts, some new aspects of care; being involved in the U3A or finally studying for that OU degree; doing crosswords, using the internet, actively using our brains to learn and share. Together creating truly great care for older people We are passionate about ensuring that the care of older people is truly great care. Older people are not an industry – they are our mums and dads and one day they will be us. What sort of care do we want for those we love and for ourselves? Caring for Care Homes is dedicated to doing just what it says. If we take good care of the care homes and their staff, they in turn can take good care of residents. We believe that the last years of our lives should be some of the best years — and are committed to helping care homes to be great places to live and great places to work — homes where both residents and staff can live, love, laugh and learn everyday. And we see care homes being a central part of the community with strong intergenerational links.” Many care homes are doing a wonderful job. To support them in delivering the very best of care we provide tailor made transformational programmes that ensure they have the best staff giving the very best care." Caring For Care Homes Website   Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 50:00 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/andrew-cohen-on-evolutionary-enlightenment-and-the-future-of-western-civilisation/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/andrew-cohen-on-evolutionary-enlightenment-and-the-future-of-western-civilisation/#comments Wed, 08 Feb 2012 20:13:23 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=1553 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/andrew-cohen-on-evolutionary-enlightenment-and-the-future-of-western-civilisation/feed/ 0 leadership, evolution, soul, Future, Spirit, heaven, religion, potential, meditation, consciousness, enlightenment, spirituality Andrew Cohen is a leading spiritual teacher, a pioneer of Evolutionary Enlightenment- Integral, post-postmodern enlightenment. He is founder of EnlightenNext Magazine and EnlightenNext, a global network of centres of students and people who follow his ... Andrew Cohen is a leading spiritual teacher, a pioneer of Evolutionary Enlightenment- Integral, post-postmodern enlightenment. He is founder of EnlightenNext Magazine and EnlightenNext, a global network of centres of students and people who follow his teachings. Andrew teaches that Life is evolution and enlightenment is about waking up to this fundamentally creative impulse as your own deepest, most authentic self. This awareness enables us to play an active role in shaping the world of tomorrow. In this interview with Dr Nicholas Beecroft, Andrew assesses the state of Western Civilisation and describes his highest vision for the future. He explains how he chooses what structures, beliefs and attachments are worth keeping and those which have outlived their purpose and can be let go to make room for the new. He understands why a lot of people in the West enjoy the fruits of our civilisation but have lost faith in it and some have a nihilistic, self-destructive contempt for it. He believes we are the luckiest people ever to live and have a huge opportunity and responsibility to evolve ourselves and our culture for the better. He describes the postmodern pathology of “Boomeritis,” the cul-de-sac of relativism, anti-authority, anti-hierarchy and spiritual narcissism. Andrew responds to challenge of leading Europe which has become mostly secular, or spiritual but not religious and how that is responds to multiculturalism and, in particular, challenges from Islam as it goes through a turbulent period. Andrew addressed directly the question of who are we, what is truth and what is the foundation of authority in us? He describes healthy hierarchies and healthy judgment beyond postmodern egalitarianism. He says how he deals with the dark side, the shadow, our more primitive impulses in his life and teaching. Finally, he says how after decades of challenging himself to evolutionary enlightenment, how has he personally changed?   Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 1:13:40 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/lynne-mctaggart-on-the-future-of-western-civilisation/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/lynne-mctaggart-on-the-future-of-western-civilisation/#comments Wed, 08 Feb 2012 11:59:28 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=1545 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/lynne-mctaggart-on-the-future-of-western-civilisation/feed/ 0 Field, bond, connection, values, potential, Beecroft, authenticity, authority, integrity, Lynne McTaggart, love, meaning Lynne McTaggart is the award-winning author of international bestselling books The Bond, The Field and The Intention Experiment. She is an internationally recognized spokesperson on the science of spirituality. Lynne McTaggart is the award-winning author of international bestselling books The Bond, The Field and The Intention Experiment. She is an internationally recognized spokesperson on the science of spirituality. In this interview with Dr Nicholas Beecroft, Lynne explores the Future of Western Civilisation using many fascinating examples from her work. If everyone took all her advice and lived in a super-connected, conscious, intentional, holistic, relational way, what would that be like? The Western World is in a crisis and that this represents a fantastic opportunity for us to renew and rebalance our culture. Lynne gives us an overview of how she sees the process we're experiencing. She discussed the Andaman tribes who escaped the Tsunami using their intuitive relationship with nature and have so much to teach us. How can we integrate the intuition and wisdom while keeping the best of the West? If one is in a public sector bureaucracy, top down, controlling, run by spreadsheets and treating people as cogs in a machine, how can you humanise it to run it as a living system made up of conscious beings with maximum human potential? What can we do to make a hospital more caring, more healing? Can we envision a welfare system which was empowering to recipients, fair to tax payers and healthy for society? How can we rebuild our atomised and damaged communities? Can we realistically change our culture like that by intention and evolution or shall we just carry on until there’s no choice and the crises of supra-ordinate goals make us change?   Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 52:44 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/howard-bloom-inspiring-western-civilisation-to-thrive/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/howard-bloom-inspiring-western-civilisation-to-thrive/#comments Wed, 25 Jan 2012 09:23:41 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=1509 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/howard-bloom-inspiring-western-civilisation-to-thrive/feed/ 0 UK, US, American, America, west, europe, science, technology, western, democratic, confidence, capitalism If we’re going to survive and thrive, Western Civilisation needs a vision- an exciting, energising one which engages our passions. Howard celebrates the unique success of Western Civilisation in increasing the length and quality of human lives. If we’re going to survive and thrive, Western Civilisation needs a vision- an exciting, energising one which engages our passions. Howard celebrates the unique success of Western Civilisation in increasing the length and quality of human lives. He shows how capitalism is an amazing motor of human development. He inspires us to look up to colonising space and solar energy to energise and excite our passions. And that’s just the start. Most people write one-idea books. Howard writes 150 idea books. From Solar Energy to Michael Jackson to Atheist Spirit to Bacteria to Geopolitics to Prince to Colonising Space to Evolution to Science to Democracy to Pop Culture to Truth via Capitalism, Soul, the Meaning of Life, Passion, Energy Security and Back. Howard Bloom is a unique specimen. He is a science geek who managed to rise to the top of the music business as the world's most successful PR consultant for Michael Jackson, Prince, Billy Joel, Queen, Bet Midler and many more. He is author of: The Lucifer Principle: A Scientific Expedition Into the Forces of History, Global Brain: The Evolution of Mass Mind From The Big Bang to the 21st Century, and The Genius of the Beast: A Radical Re-Vision of Capitalism. Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 1:35:56 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/traci-fenton-interview-democracy-and-freedom-in-organisational-culture/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/traci-fenton-interview-democracy-and-freedom-in-organisational-culture/#comments Sat, 21 Jan 2012 08:16:36 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=1499 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/traci-fenton-interview-democracy-and-freedom-in-organisational-culture/feed/ 0 business, management, leadership, leader, strategy, leaders, responsibility, alignment, democratic, democracy, collaboration, empowerment Traci Fenton is an expert in organizational democracy and the Founder and CEO of WorldBlu whose purpose is to unleash human potential and inspire freedom by championing the growth of democratic organizations worldwide. Traci Fenton is an expert in organizational democracy and the Founder and CEO of WorldBlu whose purpose is to unleash human potential and inspire freedom by championing the growth of democratic organizations worldwide. Her vision is to see 1 billion people working in free and democratic workplaces. Traci describes the 10 key features which make an organisation democratic- from modern entrepreneurial companies to the US Navy and CIA. Democratic culture in the workplace leads to improved engagement, creativity, productivity, meaning, health, energy and profit. She says where it works and where it doesn’t; who’s ready and who’s not. Worldblu supports businesses to transition from a Command and Control Model of organisation to an empowering democratic model by showing the structures, processes, rules, values, consciousness and type of leadership that are necessary to support democratic culture? She discusses how democracy can improve profits, strategy, governance, decision making, accountability and risk management. Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 47:13 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/elisabet-sahtouris-interview-on-the-universe-as-a-living-system-2/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/elisabet-sahtouris-interview-on-the-universe-as-a-living-system-2/#comments Sun, 15 Jan 2012 10:43:43 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=1486 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/elisabet-sahtouris-interview-on-the-universe-as-a-living-system-2/feed/ 0 evolution, nature, investment, values, economics, competition, capitalism, collaboration, evolutionary, complexity, biomimicry, emergence Elisabet Sahtouris is an internationally known Evolution Biologist. In this interview with Nicholas Beecroft, Elisabet inspires us to understand the universe as a conscious, living system. She illustrates this with examples of how the theory applies to... Elisabet Sahtouris is an internationally known Evolution Biologist. In this interview with Nicholas Beecroft, Elisabet inspires us to understand the universe as a conscious, living system. She illustrates this with examples of how the theory applies to finance, science, housing, competition, co-operation, falling Western birth rates, welfare systems and medicine. She believes that we're undergoing a new Copernican revolution in science and that that represents a massive opportunity to rebalance the way we live.  With her strong foundation in Western Science, she describes how our science is based upon civilisational assumptions which are in themselves untested but rather based upon faith. She believes that the non-living universe based upon solely energy and matter is the basic assumption we make without knowing it and she believes that we'd be better of trying out some science based upon the assumption that we are conscious beings living interconnected in a living, conscious universe. She shows how other cultures, especially Indian (Vedic) and Islamic have other assumptions. She takes us down to the level of bacterial, cells, mitochondria and adenosine-triphosphate to describe the origins of life and the fundamentals of a living system which she then expands up to the level of human society and the universe. Internationally known as a dynamic speaker, Dr. Sahtouris is an evolution biologist, futurist, professor, author and consultant on Living Systems Design. She shows the relevance of biological systems to organizational design in business, government and globalisation. She is a Fellow of the World Business Academy, an advisor to EthicalMarkets.com and the Masters in Business program at Schumacher College, also affiliated with the Bainbridge Graduate Institute's MBA program for sustainable business. Dr. Sahtouris has convened two International Symposia on the Foundations of Science and written about integral cosmologies. Her books include A Walk Through TIme: from Stardust to Us, Biology Revisioned, co-authored with Willis Harman, and EarthDance: Living Systems in Evolution Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 57:59 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/jim-garrison-interview-re-integrating-wisdom-into-our-way-of-life/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/jim-garrison-interview-re-integrating-wisdom-into-our-way-of-life/#comments Sat, 14 Jan 2012 11:03:09 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=1481 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/jim-garrison-interview-re-integrating-wisdom-into-our-way-of-life/feed/ 0 values, authority, knowledge, intelligence, alignment, judgement, instinct, integrity, collaboration, consciousness, biomimicry, intuition What is wisdom? How is it distinct from knowledge, truth, logic and science? Is it gut feeling, heart-brain, neuro-cognitive short cuts, tapping into electromagnetic energy, consciousness, all of that or something else? What is wisdom? How is it distinct from knowledge, truth, logic and science? Is it gut feeling, heart-brain, neuro-cognitive short cuts, tapping into electromagnetic energy, consciousness, all of that or something else? How can we access and nurture our wisdom? How can we integrate it with the best of science and reason? Do they synergise or run in parallel or do they apply for different purposes? What would medicine (or psychiatry) be like if we accessed our wisdom? How do you envisage the world would be if we all learn to use our wisdom? Western Science and philosophy evolved for a reason- partly because they work and improve our lives (trains, computers, medicine) and partly because they took us out of mediaeval tyranny of superstition, religious fundamentalism and serfdom. We obviously don’t want to go back to that but are becoming aware that we threw out a few babies with the bathwater. What made you first realise that we needed to re-establish wisdom in our way of life? When we drop the rigor of science and reason, there’s a risk of falling back into superstitions and false beliefs which at best can be a waste of time, can be harmful. People have recommended all sorts of things based on their professed wisdom- coffee enemas, drinking your own urine, crystal pyramids...how do you discern what’s true from what’s wishful thinking, imaginary, delusional or manipulative? Jim Garrison is president of Wisdom University, Founder and President of the Gorbachev Foundation (USA) and the State of the World Forum. In this interview, Jim sets out his vision to restore wisdom to a central place in our way of life. He describes wisdom and its relationship to science and reason. He discusses how wisdom can be used in medicine, politics and says he believes it’s essential to our survival. Jim Garrison became president and chairman of Wisdom University on February 2, 2005. Dr. Garrison is also founder and president of the Gorbachev Foundation/USA, which set the stage for the establishment in 1995 of the State of the World Forum, a San Francisco based non-profit institution created to establish a global network of leaders dedicated to creating a more sustainable global civilization. With President Gorbachev as its convening chairman, the Forum brings leaders from around the world and representing a spectrum of disciplines to its annual and regional conferences, and has catalyzed the creation of several independent organizations. Dr. Garrison was born in China and grew up in Taiwan. After returning to the US, he began college at Pepperdine University (1969-70), attended the University of Tel Aviv in 1972, and received a B.A. magna cum laude in World History from Santa Clara University (1973). He then received a double M.T.S. in Christology and History of Religion from Harvard Divinity School (1975), and a Ph.D. in Philosophical Theology from Cambridge University (1982). Dr. Garrison published his first book in 1980, The Plutonium Culture (SCM). This was followed by The Darkness of God: Theology After Hiroshima (SCM/1982); The Russian Threat: Myths and Realities (Gateway Books/ 1983); The New Diplomats (Resurgence Press/1984); Civilization and the Transformation of Power (Paraview Press/2000); and America As Empire: Global Leader or Rogue Power? (Barrett Koehler/2004). Garrison is also active in Mosaic Networks, a business development company of which he is a founding partner. Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 34:08 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/mary-gentile-interview-on-her-giving-voice-to-values-programme/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/mary-gentile-interview-on-her-giving-voice-to-values-programme/#comments Tue, 10 Jan 2012 16:00:39 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=1455 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/mary-gentile-interview-on-her-giving-voice-to-values-programme/feed/ 0 ethics, business, education, management, leadership, training, values, strategy, motivation, alignment, judgement, empowerment If you already knew what was the right thing to do, how could you get it done? What kinds of stories, persuasion, strategies would you use? How can you effectively stand up for your values when pressured by your boss, colleagues, customers, If you already knew what was the right thing to do, how could you get it done? What kinds of stories, persuasion, strategies would you use? How can you effectively stand up for your values when pressured by your boss, colleagues, customers, or shareholders to do the opposite? Mary Gentile has spent 3 decades asking and answering this question around the world. Mary talks abut how her educational programme is empowering people to act on their values and to make their vision reality. She discussed how this applies in the financial crisis. She talks about the potential application to politics and how a values based approach can provide a constructive way forward in very emotionally charged conflicts. She describes how she navigates complexity- coexisting in the traditional, modern and postmodern worlds, how she deals with political correctness, absolutism and relativism. Above all, she shares her story on how individuals can be empowered to make their contribution to evolving our civilisation for the better. Mary Gentile is the Creator and Director of Giving Voice to Values Programme which is taught at well over 100 business schools globally and Senior Research Scholar at Babson College in Boston. Previously Professor at Harvard Business School, consultant on management education and leadership development, she is the author of numerous books and articles, including Giving Voice to Values, how to speak your mind when you know what’s right. You can find Mary's website and book link here: www.marygentile.com  Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 54:59 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/martin-rutte-interview-on-his-project-heaven-on-earth/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/martin-rutte-interview-on-his-project-heaven-on-earth/#comments Fri, 30 Dec 2011 14:52:44 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=1449 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/martin-rutte-interview-on-his-project-heaven-on-earth/feed/ 0 heaven, love, meaning, heart, leadership, vision, soul, Future, values, purpose, religious, opportunity Martin Rutte is interviewed by Dr Nicholas Beecroft about his Project Heaven on Earth. This is no. 8 in the series Exploring the Future of Western Civilisation. Martin’s present passion is Project Heaven on Earth which is a really simple but powerful a... Martin Rutte is interviewed by Dr Nicholas Beecroft about his Project Heaven on Earth. This is no. 8 in the series Exploring the Future of Western Civilisation. Martin’s present passion is Project Heaven on Earth which is a really simple but powerful approach to aligning people with the greatest purpose in service of the highest mission. Having spent the 1st 25 years of my life highly Christianity phobic, the language “Heaven on Earth" made me feel quite uncomfortable because, to me, it sounds a bit naive, and embarrassingly religious. Martin knows that himself and was held back initially for the same reason. However he simply realised that we all feel very free to talk about “hell on earth" so we ought to be equally comfortable talking about “Heaven on Earth." The other advantage it has, according to Martin, is that everyone knows exactly what you mean by that phrase; it takes no explanation. Everyone knows what you mean by heaven. Martin Rutte is an international speaker and consultant.  He is president of Livelihood, a management consulting firm in Santa Fe, NM, that explores the deeper meaning of work and its contribution to society. He is co-author of the New York Times business bestseller Chicken Soup for the Soul at Work. Martin is founder and Chair of the Board of Canada’s first Centre for Spirituality and the Workplace at the Sobey School of Business, Saint Mary’s University, Halifax. Martin notice that you can help back from in the question even beginning to engage what is heaven on earth for them because something so wonderful felt overwhelming, to big, too much, unrealistic and they didn't know where to start. “When people really get what heaven on earth is for them and when they begin to get that they can take steps in that direction, the creativity that unfolds is astounding!" I asked Martin How the heaven on earth approach is different from positive thinking or the law of attraction and other such approaches. He said that one of the biggest limitations to us really going for heaven on earth is that culturally we have a belief that it's not possible. The very notion of heaven through the Judeo Christian tradition is that it's not attainable in this world and it's something that is on the other side after death. Martin believes that this is limiting beliefs which stops us really engaging out for human potential right now. He says the most of us are only willing to take responsibility after a certain point-responsibility for ourselves, our work, our family, academic community and maybe the country but there's always a line beyond which we don't take responsibility. Martin challenges us to get rid of that line and say that we can be responsible for the whole wild but though we only need to take small actions which are doable and realistic but we can do right now. “If we decide the heaven on earth involves ending world hunger that can easily seem really unrealistic and so we might give up. Just imagine if 7 billion people each take one small step in the right direction, suddenly becomes possible and the whole meaning of being human is transformed." Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 59:50 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/transpartisan-integral-politics-an-invitation-to-appreciation-of-the-present-and-visioning-of-a-positive-future/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/transpartisan-integral-politics-an-invitation-to-appreciation-of-the-present-and-visioning-of-a-positive-future/#comments Thu, 08 Dec 2011 18:22:38 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=1433 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/transpartisan-integral-politics-an-invitation-to-appreciation-of-the-present-and-visioning-of-a-positive-future/feed/ 0 community, leadership, government, integration, leaders, politics, democratic, dialogue, democracy, diversity, collaboration, transpartisan It's easy in current conditions for us to feel fearful or angry about the state of the world/country. There are a lot of bad things happening and many genuine threats to our way of life, freedom, prosperity and security. It's easy in current conditions for us to feel fearful or angry about the state of the world/country. There are a lot of bad things happening and many genuine threats to our way of life, freedom, prosperity and security. The trouble is thought that focussing on the negatives does not create the solutions nor does it attract others to help.   I'd like to invite people to re-orientate to the positive and to share: - that which makes them really proud to be British, American, German...etc. - those things which are already great and worth preserving - their positive vision for the future to inspire others - examples of where it's working well already and how to get there When was the last time you saw a bunch of Guardian/New York Times readers give a Daily Mail reader/Fox News Viewer a group hug? It's not very likely is it? But it's necessary because neither have got all the answers and both waste most of their energy in conflict with each other. In America they call that the "culture wars." To get to a better place, we're going to need to step up to a more conscious, integral place where we take the healthy strands of all the parts and heal the wounded or broken ones. For example, when we talk about crime there are 4 main reactions: 1. Punish them. 2. Forgive them and love them 3. Blame poverty, poor parenting, racism, lack of opportunity 4. Rehabilitate them. The energy is wasted in fighting between these positions. They're all right and the solution needs to be composed of the healthy aspects of each. Naturally, people will gravitate to particular positions depending on their backgrounds, experience, emotional triggers, personality and situation. There's a great tool box, the Transpartisan Toolbox, used by "Reuniting America" and the Transpartisan Alliance, designed to get together people of very different, in fact all persuasions so as to address common goals and challenges. I really recommend trying it out. I interviewed Joseph McCormick about this. He tells of his personal journey from hardened Republican to an integral transpartisan leader who tries to embody the best of left/right, conservative/liberal, authoritarian/libertarian, nationalist/internationalist, individual/group, control/freedom, heart/mind, masculine/feminine, security/peace, power/love, courage/compassion and so on. Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 52:49 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/the-future-of-capitalism-jon-freeman-interviewed-on-his-111111-manifesto/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/the-future-of-capitalism-jon-freeman-interviewed-on-his-111111-manifesto/#comments Sun, 04 Dec 2011 08:43:09 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=1400 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/the-future-of-capitalism-jon-freeman-interviewed-on-his-111111-manifesto/feed/ 0 Occupy, bank, London, business, market, money, finance, evolution, enterprise, Future, investment, competition Here’s an interview I did with Jon Freeman on the Manifesto he co-authored with Roger Wetzel on the Future of Capitalism. Jon is a Director of the Centre for Human Emergence in the UK. In the interview, Jon lays out his vision for the future of capital... Here’s an interview I did with Jon Freeman on the Manifesto he co-authored with Roger Wetzel on the Future of Capitalism. Jon is a Director of the Centre for Human Emergence in the UK. In the interview, Jon lays out his vision for the future of capitalism. He describes the shift in values we need to make to relate differently to money to put it back in it’s place as our servant, not the other way round. He is informed by his deep knowledge of Spiral Dynamics which he describes as an upgrade to the human “operating system.” I thought the manifesto brilliantly and succinctly sets out the challenges and limitations of capitalism. It doesn’t prescribe particular strategies but rather posits some basic principles and values which might guide us in our debates about how to evolve it for the better. We’d be delighted to hear your response to Jon’s manifesto. Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 35:11 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/john-bunzl-on-simpol-simultaneous-global-bottom-up-policy-making/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/john-bunzl-on-simpol-simultaneous-global-bottom-up-policy-making/#comments Wed, 30 Nov 2011 22:30:29 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=1277 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/john-bunzl-on-simpol-simultaneous-global-bottom-up-policy-making/feed/ 0 Simpol, community, leadership, global, government, society, evolution, Future, policy, rights, values, strategy John is a leader of SIMPOL which promotes global bottom-up simultaneous policy making. He founded SIMPOL as a grass-roots movement to promote simultaneous global-policy making based upon the simultaneous global action of communities and individuals. John is a leader of SIMPOL which promotes global bottom-up simultaneous policy making. He founded SIMPOL as a grass-roots movement to promote simultaneous global-policy making based upon the simultaneous global action of communities and individuals. Th... Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 43:22 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/cultural-evolution-towards-a-conscious-living-system-2/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/cultural-evolution-towards-a-conscious-living-system-2/#comments Wed, 30 Nov 2011 20:24:08 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=1282 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/cultural-evolution-towards-a-conscious-living-system-2/feed/ 0 Home, news, world, sport, love, life, meaning, west, business, care, education Dr Nicholas Beecroft describes what he sees as the evolution of our culture into being a fully conscious living system. Dr Nicholas Beecroft describes what he sees as the evolution of our culture into being a fully conscious living system. Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 11:10 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/occupy-wall-street-london-what%e2%80%99s-their-positive-vision-for-the-future/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/occupy-wall-street-london-what%e2%80%99s-their-positive-vision-for-the-future/#comments Wed, 30 Nov 2011 00:23:40 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=1369 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/occupy-wall-street-london-what%e2%80%99s-their-positive-vision-for-the-future/feed/ 0 Occupy, bank, London, business, market, money, finance, evolution, enterprise, Future, investment, competition On 18 October 2011 I went to visit the “Occupy Wall Street” protesters in London. I was inquisitive to go meet them to find out whether or not they had a viable positive alternative vision for the future. They were camped out in front of St Paul’s Cath... On 18 October 2011 I went to visit the “Occupy Wall Street” protesters in London. I was inquisitive to go meet them to find out whether or not they had a viable positive alternative vision for the future. They were camped out in front of St Paul’s Cathedral in the City of London, one of the world’s main financial centres. The protest had gone global within the previous few weeks and had caught my attention. The media reports which I had seen didn’t really give the protesters much opportunity to convey their story and focus mostly on analysts giving secondary soundbites and opinions. I decided to go to meet them to find out for myself. Previous demonstrations of this type in London had never attracted my interest.  There was one exception to that back in the 1990s when I’d been sitting with a friend enjoying a glass of wine whilst people watching in Leicester Square and a large demonstration of very angry people were shepherded by police on right horses right past us. They had all looked rather angry, abusive and unapproachable. This occasion is completely different. I was slightly apprehensive approaching St Paul’s wondering what the security situation would be. My fears couldn’t have been more misplaced. The atmosphere was like a carnival or country fete. People very friendly and very keen to speak to get their message across. In fact they were so well-organised that there was a special area for recycling rubbish and they seemed to be very serious about doing that properly. There was a library, an area for discussion and meetings. The atmosphere was so welcoming and open that I could see quite a few City-types in their pinstripe suits coming to listen and debate with the protesters. It felt to me to be a sign of a very healthy democracy. At 1st I ran into Barnaby from an organisation called SIMPOL which stands for simultaneous grassroots global policy-making. It was founded by a chap called John Bunzl who has done an interview on the subject for the series. Barnaby described how SIMPOL works and why he felt it was necessary. Were immediately joined by Tom and veteran speaker at Hyde Park Corner, Danny. The 3 had an engaging debate which put the ideas to the test. Lilly Anne spoke eloquently in favour of transparency and fairness. She believes that government should be more closely localized and tailored to the needs and values of the community. She would like much more opportunity for people to feedback to the government and being more responsive. She was also seeking funding to do a mobile body-piercing course so that she could work entrepreneurially and get off benefits. One young man came because he was worried about government cuts affecting him. He suffers with cerebral palsy and communicated via a computer which he carried with him. Naomi came from a pioneering co-operative in South East London to promote the idea of living in community with more community ownership. She feels that people need to take ownership of their environment, gaining land rights. They share ownership and management through a democratic process. They are doing their best with sustainable living. She finds that way of life dynamic. She felt people came to overcome the mistakes of capitalism, colonialism and imperialism and replace that with a more communal and sustainable way of life. She feels that taking ownership of ones life is the first step in that direction. Richard was there to promote the “Green Love Revolution.” Danny, who I’ve heard before at Speaker’s Corner, sees the financial crisis as an opportunity for people to undo our conditioning and become more conscious of our way of life. He thinks that globalisation has awakened people globally and they are finding their own conclusions. He believes the basic communist idea “from each according to his means to each according to his needs.” He believes that marriage is the most convenient way to create wage-slaves and is a property transaction. Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 19:13 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/remembrance-and-patriotism-2011/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/remembrance-and-patriotism-2011/#comments Wed, 30 Nov 2011 00:04:24 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=1366 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/remembrance-and-patriotism-2011/feed/ 0 UK, war, British, England, heart, security, Britain, army, United Kingdom, Patriotism, remembrance What makes people proud to be British? What would they be willing to defend? In November 2011, I went to the remembrance ceremony at the Cenotaph in central London. I wanted to find out why people have gone there and specifically what makes them proud ... What makes people proud to be British? What would they be willing to defend? In November 2011, I went to the remembrance ceremony at the Cenotaph in central London. I wanted to find out why people have gone there and specifically what makes them proud to be British. The ceremonies have happened since the First World War on the anniversary of Armistice Day as an opportunity for the British and Commonwealth people to remember those who have given their lives in defence of our freedom and service of our country. Services happen all around the world but this particular one is the one which the Queen and the Royal family attend along with the government, the opposition, the Chiefs of staff of the military, the ambassadors from the Commonwealth nations, representatives from the civilian services such as police, fire and ambulance service. It’s a hugely solemn event and deeply but quietly patriotic. I’ve been there many times as a spectator it’s always very moving, not least because there are so many people there who are remembering lost loved ones and old comrades. After a short religious service, sermon and laying of wreaths, the tone becomes much more upbeat as a huge parade of ex-servicemen passers-by with military bands. My intention was to meet the people who had gone that to find out why drawn them to the event and, assuming there were British, what made them proud to be British. It was radically different to attending the Occupy  protest where I had found that the large majority of people were very keen to speak so as to get across their message. The opposite was true in this case. The large majority of people did not wish to make any comment on camera. There were different reasons for this. The majority were simply too embarrassed and surprised to be asked. About a 3rd were tourists from overseas who didn’t feel they had much to say. Some of the British people were fearful of expressing patriotism on camera for fear of a knock on the door from the thought police. Some were too upset to speak. A couple from Northern Ireland said it would be dangerous for them to be on camera. So the people you see in this film are a very small sample of those asked to speak. The atmosphere changed enormously throughout. Initially the atmosphere was very solemn, respect for and subdued. There are a lot of tears and heavy hearts. For the 2nd part of when the parade passed by, the atmosphere really lightened and became quite joyful and celebratory with lots of laughter and applause. It’s also really deep tribal experience in which the different parts of the nation come together almost like an alchemical meeting of the archetypes in a giant tribal cauldron. Interviewees can speak for themselves on camera. What really struck me was that all the people I spoke to found it quite difficult to put into words what they were feeling. Though clearly all very emotionally and spiritually engaged in the ceremony. They weren’t just casual tourists. Nevertheless the words did not really flowed freely. From a Tantric or energetic point of view, it was clearly a large group experience centred on the heart with all that entails-love, compassion, pride, connection, patriotism as well as sadness, loss, bereavement and wounding. I could also fill some anger just below the surface. The kind of anger which I’ve experienced from being called to violent situations in psychiatric hospitals when there is a very big powerful man who is feeling very sensitive and vulnerable, but with painful wounds such as shame or humiliation opened. I could sense that if anybody messed about in the crowd, they would meet with the swift physical response. This made me reflect on whether it was healthy that the modern ideology of anti-nationalism, anti-patriotism, political correctness and multiculturalism and the suppression of a healthy national identity and sense of belonging-whether that was a good thing? Given that experience is a very heart centred one, Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 13:39 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/british-patriotism-a-ugandan-perspective/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/british-patriotism-a-ugandan-perspective/#comments Tue, 29 Nov 2011 23:34:47 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=1362 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/british-patriotism-a-ugandan-perspective/feed/ 0 News, UK, London, British, England, leadership, security, government, race, Britain, United Kingdom Dr Nicholas Beecroft Interviews William Nkata Masembe on his perspective on British Patriotism as a Ugandan who lives in London. Nkata describes his experience as a Ugandan who has come to live in London. He describes those things that he loves about B... Dr Nicholas Beecroft Interviews William Nkata Masembe on his perspective on British Patriotism as a Ugandan who lives in London. Nkata describes his experience as a Ugandan who has come to live in London. He describes those things that he loves about Britain and the British and gives his observations on how multiculturalism is working. He loves the tolerance and diversity which Britain offers, particularly in London, but he feels that  political correctness has suppressed what ought to be a healthy patriotism and celebration of Britishness whilst being fully global, multiracial and inclusive. Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 11:37 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/introduction-to-the-series-exploring-the-future-of-western-civilisation-2/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/introduction-to-the-series-exploring-the-future-of-western-civilisation-2/#comments Tue, 29 Nov 2011 20:22:37 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=1267 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/introduction-to-the-series-exploring-the-future-of-western-civilisation-2/feed/ 0 news, world, sport, UK, US, love, American, life, meaning, America, english, west Dr Nicholas Beecroft is interviewed by Melanie Mortiboys on the purpose of the following series of interviews on the Future of Western Civilisation. - I’m Dr Nicholas Beecroft, a Consultant Psychiatrist in London. Dr Nicholas Beecroft is interviewed by Melanie Mortiboys on the purpose of the following series of interviews on the Future of Western Civilisation. I’m Dr Nicholas Beecroft, a Consultant Psychiatrist in London. I’m exploring the Future of Western Civilisation through a series of interviews. I want us to rejuvenate our energy, direction and self-confidence as a civilisation. My mission is to create a positive, appreciative space in which leaders at the evolutionary edge of our civilisation can share their experience and set out their vision for our future to inspire others. They are visionaries sewing the seeds of future transformation, all genuine, creative, courageous people who really care about who we are and where we’re going. By “civilisation”, I mean Western Civilisation- the one I’ve lived in; to one that’s transformed the world over the last 500 years; the one that’s gone global; the one that faces enormous threats, challenges and has the unprecedented opportunity to evolve to a really amazing future. When there’s so much changing all at once, old structures failing and a huge array of emerging threats, that all generates a lot of anxiety, pessimism and fear which distract us from putting energy into creating new solutions, generating new ideas and envisioning a better future. Behind the News Headlines, usually quietly, under the radar, there’s a lot of good stuff going on; the seeds of the future taking root in the present. There are lots of evolutionaries trying out new ideas, new technologies, new ways of organising and more integrated, conscious & balanced ways of thinking and being. Western Civilisation has been supremely successful in all kinds of ways of which we should be enormously proud. Science, technology, industrialisation, democracy, individual rights, personal freedom, property rights, the rule of law, Christianity, humanism, organisation, capitalism, feminism, civil rights, philosophy, music, art, even Imperialism have all, on balance, transformed the world for the better and have created new life conditions with new challenges and problems. In some cases, these advances had nasty side effects and some have become imbalanced. In others, they have replaced older structures and beliefs and many babies have been lost with the bathwater. Human civilisation is made up of human beings who are conscious beings and physical animals, all interconnected like a shoal of fish or a flock of birds. I’ve interviewed a huge range of people across a variety roles, professions, beliefs, politics, status, nationalities, religions, social classes and backgrounds. What is crystal clear to me is that whilst the world we live in is hyper-complex, we operate in it using a kind of mini-map of our civilisation in our minds which we used to navigate through the world, guided by our inner compass of intuition and rational thought. It is astonishing how similar these inner maps are and the patterns are clear. This is how we self-organise in what is a complex living system- just like a bee hive or wildebeest migration. Now we are super-connected by the internet, media and travel. We carry in our pockets access to billions of people and to just about all the knowledge that ever existed. Turning inwards we have access to to our instinctive intuition, heart, wisdom, common sense and judgement. Put together, that represents vast human potential and the most amazing opportunity for personal and cultural evolution ever. Looked at like that, just about all of our shared challenges and threats are solvable and a much better world is highly realistic. We’re engaged in conscious evolution of ourselves and our civilisation. There are a huge range of threats and challenges to The West and to the whole World. People focus their attention on different ones depending on their situation, beliefs and emotional make-up. The list is pretty depressing and overwhelming- so I’ve turned it into a list of positive questions instead. Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 13:31 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/psyplomacy-human-centred-foreign-policy/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/psyplomacy-human-centred-foreign-policy/#comments Tue, 29 Nov 2011 20:03:17 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=1298 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/psyplomacy-human-centred-foreign-policy/feed/ 0 Authenticity,Authority,Collaboration and Competition,Compassion,Confidence,Consciousness & Mindfulness,Defence & Geopolitics,Democracy,Dialogue & Listening,Empowerment & Engagement,Evolution,Gut feelings Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 5:23 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/healthy-global-patriotism-evolving-beyond-multiculturalism-3/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/healthy-global-patriotism-evolving-beyond-multiculturalism-3/#comments Tue, 29 Nov 2011 19:31:48 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=1291 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/healthy-global-patriotism-evolving-beyond-multiculturalism-3/feed/ 0 Adventure,Authenticity,Authority,Community,Compassion,Confidence,Defence & Geopolitics,Democracy,Empowerment & Engagement,Evolution,Fairness & Law,Freedom Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 6:58 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/freedom-of-speech-evolving-beyond-political-correctness-2/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/freedom-of-speech-evolving-beyond-political-correctness-2/#comments Tue, 29 Nov 2011 18:17:57 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=1284 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/freedom-of-speech-evolving-beyond-political-correctness-2/feed/ 0 Authenticity,Authority,Collaboration and Competition,Community,Confidence,Consciousness & Mindfulness,Democracy,Dialogue & Listening,Education,Empowerment & Engagement,Evolution,Fairness & Law Dr Nicholas Beecroft no 4:02 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/german-british-relationship-transcending-history/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/german-british-relationship-transcending-history/#comments Tue, 02 Feb 2010 10:16:28 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://nicholasbeecroft.wordpress.com/?p=301 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/german-british-relationship-transcending-history/feed/ 0 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/evolving-global-british-identity/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/evolving-global-british-identity/#comments Fri, 08 Jan 2010 13:25:20 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://nicholasbeecroft.wordpress.com/?p=296 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/evolving-global-british-identity/feed/ 0 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/foreign-secretarys-briefing-psychological-strategy-for-foreign-policy/ http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/foreign-secretarys-briefing-psychological-strategy-for-foreign-policy/#comments Wed, 19 Jul 2006 09:25:06 +0000 Nicholas Beecroft http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/?p=2081 http://www.nicholasbeecroft.com/foreign-secretarys-briefing-psychological-strategy-for-foreign-policy/feed/ 0