African institute of thought, doctrine, and action
𝕏 in ▶ ◎
Version française →

Method

The Method of We-ism

A method that thinks itself against Descartes.

We-ism explains what it affirms; the Method of We-ism explains how to decide and act, day after day, in coherence with that affirmation.

In the Discourse on the Method (1637), Descartes lays out four precepts that operate in the isolation of the thinking subject. The Method of We-ism takes up Descartes' ambition for rigour, but reverses where it is exercised: it seeks a truth oriented toward the common good, one that only exists through confrontation, relationship, and collective action.

The seven rules

  1. Useful-Existence — who will this action be useful to? Usefulness precedes greatness. Direct translation of the first pillar.
  2. Shared Truth — no decision rests on an isolated opinion. Application of the Weaving Word.
  3. Interdependence — measure the effects on oneself, others, society, the future. Transposition of the Knot of Destinies.
  4. Responsibility — can I do it? Should I do it? What are the consequences? Exercise of the Heart/Conscience.
  5. Creative Cooperation — the best solution mobilises several people rather than one person's genius. Application of the Economy of Elevated Sharing.
  6. Harmony — the balance between individual freedom, the common good, justice and dignity. The spirit of Co-Genesis.
  7. Continuous Transformation — no human truth is ever final. The very spirit of the Art of We.

The seven-step process

Observe

What are the facts?

Understand

What are the underlying causes?

Relate

Who is affected, and what are the interdependencies?

Serve

Which solutions best serve the common good?

Decide

What is the most useful and just action?

Act

How is the decision implemented collectively?

Improve

What do the results teach us?

Any thought that does not become useful to the We remains unfinished. Any action that weakens the We is a mistake. Any just decision is one that simultaneously uplifts the person, the community and humanity.

The seventh rule says it itself: no human truth is ever final. This rule is the very spirit of the Art of We: an art that is only learned through practice, and is never fully complete.

Discover how this method applies concretely in The Three Pillars and We-ism in Practice.