The Uplift Pattern Language
http://www.nooron.org/know/uplift_pattern_language
Uplift patterns relates to a pattern language for uplift, a way of
supporting positive discourse for humanitarian uplift. By focusing on
the positive form of discourse, we are creating unknowledge which in
turn shapes our discoveries. Combining patterns in novel ways allows us
to create Uplift tapestries, weaving together what we know is uplifting
with the voids in which these uplift patterns have not been applied. In
the same way that the periodic table of the elements gave us a framework
for discovering new properties of the elements, the uplift tapestry
gives us a framework for discovering new patterns of uplift. Uplift
patterns may be specialized to specific domains of discourse, for
example HIV/AIDS orphans.
The Patterns
Instances of pattern are the individual patterns in
the pattern language constituted by the kb.
Appreciative Inquiry
Intent
Appreciative Inquiry is about the coevolutionary search for the best in people, their organizations, and the relevant
world around them. In its broadest focus, it involves systematic discovery of what gives 'life' to a living system when it is most alive, most effective,
and most constructively capable in economic, ecological, and human terms. AI involves, in a central way, the art and practice of asking questions
that strengthen a system's capacity to apprehend, anticipate, and heighten positive potential. It centrally involves the mobilization of inquiry through
the crafting of the "unconditional positive question" often-involving hundreds or sometimes thousands of people. In AI the arduous task of intervention
gives way to the speed of imagination and innovation; instead of negation, criticism, and spiraling diagnosis, there is discovery, dream, and design.
AI seeks, fundamentally, to build a constructive union between a whole people and the massive entirety of what people talk about as past
and present capacities: achievements, assets, unexplored potentials, innovations, strengths, elevated thoughts, opportunities, benchmarks,
high point moments, lived values, traditions, strategic competencies, stories, expressions of wisdom, insights into the deeper corporate spirit
or soul-- and visions of valued and possible futures. Taking all of these together as a gestalt, AI deliberately, in everything it does, seeks
to work from accounts of this "positive change core" -- and it assumes that every living system has many untapped and rich and inspiring
accounts of the positive. Link the energy of this core directly to any change agenda and changes never thought possible are suddenly and democratically mobilized.
Motivation
Building a database of Appreciative Inquiry questions and their reputation
Applicability
A form of group discussion which is driven by questions whose answers address the positive
core values of the members of the group.
Method
Support via Call to Inquiry method, which collects a community a question, and facilitates the
interview process, either in person or via electronically facilitated means
Consequences
AI begins a dialog, opening up new opportunities to Do Something
References
http://appreciativeinquiry.cwru.edu/intro/whatisai.cfm
Positive Core Values
Intent
Connecting people and organizations according to their positive core values requires an approach which is
able to pierce through a cynical shell which often obscures the positive core underneath. Through the use of Appreciative Inquiry, Positive Psychology,
Postive Deviancy, storytelling, and many other techniques, we will create an ever-expanding web of interaction which replicates successful, uplifting
ideas and actions.
Motivation
To create an information space for postive discourse, and a language of uplift based on
discovering and replicating successful ways of communicating postive core values. To create a metaphor for human relations which is inclusive of,
but not dependent on, personal spiritual, religious, and cultural beliefs.
Applicability
The foundation upon which the uplift model is based, that there are positive core values
of humanity which are common to all, and that by providing ways of connecting people to express and act on these values, we will
achieve a self-organizing, self-propagating cascade of uplift
Method
Communicating these values at all levels of the space. Asking users to confirm these values as
part of the acceptable use criteria for joining the space.
Consequences
People will come to expect others to interact in positive ways.
KnownUses
These values are the core of the entire uplift space
References
http://appreciativeinquiry.cwru.edu/intro/whatisai.cfm
http://www.positivepsychology.org/taxonomy.htm
Solar Cooking
Intent
This pattern describes the creation of solar cookers to assist those in less developed countries cook their food
with less dependence of firewood.
Motivation
reduce cost of cooking, gathering fuel, and environmental load.
Applicability
Most effective in areas with significant sunshine. Less expensive, cardboard boxes
do not work in areas with monsoon season
Method
teach people to build solar cookers from simple materials, including
carboard boxes, plastic sheeting, and aluminum foil.
Consequences
Reduces deforestation and desertification, reduces walking time to gather fuel, reduces
air pollution.
References
http://solarcooking.org/
Uplift Hotline
Intent
This pattern establishes a dial-in telephone hotline which people may call to talk to people
on the other side of political, religous, or culture divides. It provides an opportunity for people to connect at their positive
core values in a safe manner. Ideas and stories which emerge from the hotline relationships can be used to further detect and
replicate uplift patterns.
Motivation
Overcome tensions and dividing issues and allow people to communicate at their
positive core values and concerns for community uplift.
Applicability
Two or more groups divided by social, political, or cultural
barriers can use an anonymous telephone hotline system to meet each other, discuss differences in
a safe, positive environment
Method
Set up a hotline which allows dial-in access for people to call each other.
Consequences
Improved social cohesion, relief of tensions, community
building even in the face of tensions. Conversations may trigger other stories and patterns of uplift.
Variations
Can this be used for other forms of uplift, for example on-line chat rooms, etc.?
KnownUses
This hotline started in Israel, and drew 25,000 callers per month several months after it started.
References
https://curly.mindtel.com/upspace/Communities/hellopeace/
http://www.hellopeace.net/callnow.htm
Womens Empowerment
Intent
This pattern uplifts of woman, family, community, or village by teaching women to read, do arithmentic,
and start a credit union with their own savings. From this activities, women are empowered to continue their self-development, and teach other
women how to do the same.
Applicability
Where ever family and cultural support is enhanced by teaching women to read, start
their own savings-led credit unions, etc.
References
http://www.pactworld.org/programs/country/nepal/stories_nepal.htm
http://www.munnecke.com/blog/archives/2002_10.html#000060