Join Jesse Hirsh as he engages in a fascinating conversation with David Fingrut, delving into the vibrant history of the media collective and its impact on Toronto’s cultural landscape in the 1990s. They explore how this unique social network fostered collaboration among diverse individuals, bridging various political ideologies while promoting creative projects that challenged mainstream narratives. Fingrut shares insights on the collective’s ethos, encapsulated in the slogan “don’t get caught,” highlighting the interplay between activism, media, and public space. The discussion also touches on the evolution of grassroots movements, drawing parallels to contemporary events like Reclaim the Streets, which sought to reclaim urban spaces through creative protest. As they navigate these themes, Hirsh and Fingrut reflect on the ongoing relevance of these movements in today’s socio-political climate, emphasizing the importance of community organizing and the fight for justice.
Engaging in a rich conversation about the evolution of media and community activism, Jesse Hirsh and David Fingrut reflect on the legacy of the Media Collective, a group that flourished in Toronto during the late 1990s. Fingrut describes the Media Collective as a vibrant social network that convened in person to collaborate on creative projects, often infused with political undertones. The conversation reveals how the collective fostered a sense of community among diverse individuals who were passionate about media-making and social change, utilizing discussions and monthly meetings to share ideas and launch various initiatives. Hirsh emphasizes the cultural significance of the collective during a period marked by the rise of the internet and alternative media, suggesting that it represented a crucial turning point in how communities engaged with media production.
Delving deeper into the socio-political context of their experiences, the hosts discuss how the Media Collective intersected with movements like Reclaim the Streets, which sought to reclaim public space through creative protests. Fingrut recalls the playful yet poignant tactics employed, such as street theater and spontaneous gatherings, which contrasted sharply with conventional forms of activism. The dialogue highlights the necessity of physical presence and community organizing, especially when juxtaposed against the backdrop of today’s digital landscape, where online activism often overshadows physical mobilization. As they navigate through the significance of these grassroots movements, both Hirsh and Fingrut underscore a collective yearning for a return to tangible, community-driven activism in the face of modern challenges.
The episode culminates with a discussion on the future of activism and the role of media in shaping public discourse. The two ponder the implications of the current political climate, particularly as it relates to the rise of authoritarianism and the erosion of public spaces. They reflect on the lessons learned from the Media Collective and how those principles can inform contemporary movements seeking to reclaim agency in a world increasingly dominated by corporate interests. Hirsh and Fingrut’s dialogue serves as a poignant reminder of the power of collective action, the importance of community, and the ongoing struggle for a more just and equitable society, urging listeners to reconsider their roles within these narratives of resistance and resilience.
Roni Robbins, an award-winning author and seasoned journalist, joins Jesse Hirsh on Metaviews to discuss her novel, “Hands of Gold,” which delves into her family’s remarkable history and the enduring themes of survival and resilience. The conversation highlights the profound impact of personal stories shaped by trauma and triumph, particularly in the context of the Holocaust and the challenges faced by her grandparents. Roni reflects on the shifting landscape of journalism, emphasizing the importance of ethics and unbiased reporting in a time of rampant misinformation. As they explore the lessons from her family’s journey, they underline the significance of community and shared experiences in navigating life’s adversities. This episode not only celebrates storytelling as a means of connection but also serves as a poignant reminder of the wisdom passed down through generations.
Takeaways:
- Roni Robbins reflects on her grandfather’s incredible journey, showcasing resilience through historical challenges.
- The transition from traditional print journalism to digital platforms has significantly changed the industry landscape.
- Robbins emphasizes the importance of maintaining ethical standards in journalism amidst a chaotic media environment.
- Survival is not just an individual act; it often involves family and community support.
- Robbins discusses how her family’s history during the Holocaust inspired her novel, ‘Hands of Gold.’
- The conversation highlights the need for individuals to remain engaged with trustworthy news sources.
Links referenced in this episode:
Jim Marshall introduces the revolutionary concept of Septemics, a philosophical science that categorizes human phenomena into a hierarchy of seven levels. With a background as a polymathic intellectual, Jim shares insights from his extensive studies spanning psychology, philosophy, and various other disciplines, emphasizing the importance of synthesis in understanding complex human experiences. He explores how education can be transformed to cultivate lifelong learning and improve literacy, arguing that a deeper grasp of language is essential for effective communication. Throughout the discussion, Jim provides relatable examples, illustrating how Septemics can help individuals navigate personal challenges and enhance their relationships. The conversation highlights the potential for Septemics to address societal discordance, offering accessible tools for anyone seeking to improve their lives and understanding of the world around them.
The latest episode of Metaviews features an enlightening conversation between host Jesse Hirsh and guest Jim Marshall, a polymathic intellectual renowned for his development of Septemics, a groundbreaking framework for understanding human behavior. The episode opens with a timely discussion about the potential ramifications of the Supreme Court’s rulings on social media platforms like TikTok, setting the stage for deeper insights into the nature of knowledge and its application in our lives. Hirsch and Marshall explore how the specialized nature of contemporary society often leads to echo chambers and a lack of holistic understanding, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary approaches to learning.
Marshall shares his personal journey of over 50,000 hours dedicated to studying various aspects of human potential, underscoring the importance of lifelong learning and the cultivation of curiosity. His experiences reveal a profound understanding of how language and literacy impact our ability to connect, comprehend, and communicate effectively. He argues for a reevaluation of the educational system to prioritize vocabulary and language skills as fundamental tools for personal and societal development, which aligns with the core tenets of Septemics. By articulating human experiences through a seven-level hierarchy, Septemics serves as a practical tool for individuals seeking clarity in their relationships and personal dilemmas.
Throughout the episode, Marshall provides relatable examples, illustrating how Septemics can facilitate deeper self-awareness and problem-solving. The discussion culminates in an exploration of how this framework can address the discordance experienced in modern society, offering a pathway towards unity and understanding. As Marshall articulates, Septemics is not merely an academic exercise but a practical philosophy that can empower individuals to navigate their lives with greater purpose and insight. This episode serves as a compelling reminder of the potential for transformative knowledge to shape our understanding of ourselves and each other.
Takeaways:
- Jim Marshall emphasizes the importance of synthesizing knowledge across disciplines to solve complex human problems.
- The concept of septemics offers a structured approach to understanding and improving relationships.
- Education should focus on enhancing language skills to promote better communication and understanding.
- Jim Marshall believes that a lifelong love for learning can lead to personal transformation.
- The scales of septemics can provide individuals with insights into their relationships and personal dilemmas.
- Understanding natural laws, as presented in septemics, can help individuals navigate life’s challenges more effectively.
Links referenced in this episode:
Hey friends! We’re back!
Episode 16: Resurgence
After a long hiatus, Metaviews to the Future returns with a renewed sense of purpose. In this special episode, we reflect on the journey of Metaviews so far—its origins, milestones, and the critical conversations that have defined our work.
This moment of resurgence marks the beginning of a new chapter, as we double down on our mission to envision a future of authority that serves everyone. Against the backdrop of rising authoritarianism, we explore how to look beyond its grip, toward its eventual collapse and failure. What does it take to build systems of power rooted in wisdom, nature, and participation?
Join us as we examine the past, embrace the present, and chart a course for a more just and funky future. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and the conversation starts here.
https://metaviews.substack.com
https://jessehirsh.com
The pandemic has transformed work and learning, and this will be
particularly evident as we emerge into a post-pandemic world. One
person’s disruption is another person’s opportunity. Similarly some
organizations have responded with incredible resilience, and are
experiencing unprecedented growth and success.
Historically great crises and catastrophes are followed by renaissances
and periods of incredible innovation. What’s the difference between
success and failure, between depression and excitement? Talent. This is
true for both individuals and organizations.
How do you foster and harness your talent? How do organizations attract,
develop, and retain talent? These are crucial questions during this
transitional period as we remain in a pandemic but seek our path out of
it!
As a futurist and social designer, Andriana Lagoudes builds inclusive systems for sidelined people to unlearn their shame. Andriana does this by navigating and researching through complex political problems to design new code based on people’s best case scenario.
In this episode of Metaviews, Andriana joins host Jesse Hirsh to talk about the politics of the future, the politics of care, and why we’re living in a moment where ethics may be more important than aesthetics.
To learn more about Andriana check out her website https://andrianalagoudes.com/
And follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andriana.lagoudes/
Vasiliki Bednar from Regs2Riches.com joins Jesse Hirsh to talk about the problems arising from copy and paste public policy. This is what happens when policy makers copy other jurisdictions blindly, rather than engage in a policy process that adapts to the needs of jurisdiction. Obviously policy makers can and should learn from each other and best practices, yet often the process is the purpose, and blindly copying others leads to problems down the road.
Business_Daddy is the name of a twitch user, artist, community organizer, chef, and brilliant intellectual. Their efforts to create community on twitch are both inspirational, but also controversial. In this tale of algorithmic injustice, we explore how on social media, you’re often presumed guilty, without the opportunity to prove your innocence.
Alberto Cottica from the Science Fiction Economics Lab joins Jesse Hirsh to talk about Sociopathic Innovation and using science fiction to imagine alternate economic systems.
Alberto’s essay on sociopathic innovation:
https://edgeryders.eu/t/sociopathic-innovation-how-we-are-investing-most-in-the-most-evil-technologies-long/15979
The science fiction economics lab:
https://scifieconomics.world/
Jesse Hirsh speaks with Reuben Christian about his work exploring the intersections of our culture while getting people together to experience joy. He argues we need more emotional literacy to better appreciate our shared humanity. If more people could meet themselves, perhaps we’d focus more on our presence, rather than our future.
https://www.instagram.com/reubenchristian1/
