Changing the Wind

Social Change is effected not by measuring and following the direction of the winds of change, but by "changing the wind." This requires skill, sacrifice, creativity and ultimately, moral authority.


The fundamental principle is, that history is most changed by social movements with a spiritual foundation. Change that drives deep into the emotions of the populace, and which answer their most sensitive needs, will set the stage for sustained change. Hence, moral authority is not acquired, it is granted. It is granted in part by the source of the morals, and in part by the populace whose needs they serve.

Once moral authority is established, and the desired "direction of the wind" is clearly and specifically identified, Change-Drivers should focus efforts in three key areas:

1. The Power-Brokers

o Focus efforts where the power-brokers will take notice
o Use terms they understand

2. The Critical Constituency (key stakeholders)

o Understand and seek stakeholders whose personality and experience match the moral direction of the social change
o Keep recruiting statekholders until you sense the "room is too full"

3. The Populace

o Establish the Moral Authority of the cause
o Use situations that will agitate a response

Now, start blowing!