FAQ

We are a group of friendly, committed individuals, who take on different aspects of the Movement’s work, on a voluntary basis.

Most of us were brought up to accept the inevitability of the ‘growth economy’ and are continuously subjected to the values of consumerism through the media. It is hard to avoid succumbing to the barrage, often almost without being aware of what we are doing. Sometimes, too, it seems as if we are quite solitary, without influence or respect, but only the objects of indifference or ridicule.

Our counsel is: DON’T DESPAIR! Nearly everyone feels the same at times and has similar problems and misgivings. There is a creative tension which is common to all who aspire to an ideal. What matters is the direction in which you travel, not the point at which you have arrived.

The Lifestyle Movement was founded by the noted Christian, Horace Dammers (Dean of Bristol Cathedral) a number of years ago.

We are open to people of any country, culture, religious faith – or none. The important thing is that you share our vision of a more sustainable, equable world – underpinned by humanistic values – that manages the earth resources in mindful and caring ways.

The small economies of individuals can hardy be expected to change the country’s economic system or transform established political attitudes. But there is a groundswell of people who recognize the inevitability of, if not the immediate need for, a less material standard of living. Lifestylers are able to demonstrate that this is possible, and not to be feared. We bear witness to another set of values and believe that prophecy has a place in liberating people for the common good. To opt now, for an economy of equilibrium – rather than one of growth – will be seen as really significant for the future.

If, sometimes, our effects seem trivial – compared with the issues involved – remember Edmund Burke’s remarks:

“Nobody made a greater mistake than he who did nothing because he could only do a little.”