Free or Fair Share?

 

Even after all this time, the Sun never says to the Earth, ‘You owe Me’.

Look what happens with a love like that, it lights the Whole Sky.

– Hafiz

 

Set limits and redistribute surplus says the third Permaculture Principle! 

 

This principle suggests that when we produce more than we can consume or enjoy, it's beneficial for everyone to share the excess with others, especially the ones in need.

This concept forms the foundation of my approach at Loving Living Food.

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As I embarked on this journey to promote healthy eating and sustainable living, I've encountered questions about the ethics of sharing knowledge freely and the use of various sources in our content. These concerns have prompted me to reflect on our practices and clarify our stance on what is called the 'Gift Economy'.

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I believe in the power of collective benefit over individual gain. My mission is to spread knowledge by connecting dots that aren't always obvious, presenting scientific information in a practical, accessible manner that everyone can benefit from and enjoy. I am committed to this approach, even if it means taking risks.

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My goal is to ensure that people have greater access to the resources they need to live healthy, fulfilling lives that are also beneficial to the environment that sustains them. This vision somewhat challenges the scarcity mentality central to traditional monetary economics.

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I acknowledge the complexities surrounding copyright and fair use, especially in the digital age where information spreads rapidly. As a blogger, content creator and former science-based journalist, I strive to balance respect for intellectual property with the need to disseminate crucial information for the public good. I believe that the evolving landscape of knowledge sharing requires a new paradigm of integrity and congruence that transcends monetary value.

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The Gift Economy we envision operates on a largely unconditional basis. This stands in contrast to the so-called 'free-market' economy, which has commodified nearly every aspect of our planet. My approach aligns more closely with what we might call the 'nature economy' - a system of giving and receiving that mirrors the unconditional generosity we observe in the natural world.

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I appreciate that this approach carries challenges. However, transition takes time and the benefits of freely shared knowledge will ripple outwards, affecting positive change even beyond our immediate sphere. While gifts may be reciprocated in the future, they are not conditional, immediate, or exact. This fluidity is key to strengthening our vision of a more generous, sustainable society.

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I respect diverse opinions and welcome discussions that help me grow and explore new perspectives. I am committed to responsible practices and am prepared to address any concerns about our content use. My aim is to navigate this threshold of a new economic model with curiosity and openness. I focus on what is appropriate for me to do, rather than dictating what others should do. By striving for the right balance in my own practices, I hope to provide positive examples that inspire others to find their own equilibrium in this evolving landscape of knowledge sharing and sustainable living.