While we are open to large-order shifts in the system stemming from moments of crisis opportunity, our theory of change does not depend upon revolutionary upheavals or rupture. But nor do we contend that steady incremental reforms within the system can bring about change on the scale that is necessary. 

Instead we seek the steady build-up of political-economic alternatives, which themselves suggest wider  strategic changes in the way in which the economy operates which can then tip-over into systemic transformation. We call this “evolutionary reconstruction” –   a longer term theory of transformative change which seeks to displace rather than simply regulate or offset or counter-balance the power of corporate and other institutions that are producing undesirable social, economic, and environmental outcomes.

Our vision is of a future economy, in the United States and around the world, in which all people and communities can flourish and exert greater democratic control over their own lives and destinies.

In all of our work, we seek to articulate a compelling, historically-grounded and -referenced vision of a democratic economy and powerful demonstration projects that convey the viability and practicability of that model and the pathways for getting there. 

As we enter a new phase in the life of our organization, our task at this moment in our history is to build on our work and legacy to date, cascade learning,  partner with more organizations, and make decisive advances over the coming period in our major program work.