PROUT is
an acronym for PROgressive Utilization Theory,
a socio-economic philosophy that synthesizes the physical, mental
and spiritual dimensions of human nature. The goal of PROUT is to
provide guidance for the evolution of a truly progressive human society.
PROUT is an alternative to the outmoded capitalist and communist socio-economic
paradigms. Neither of these approaches have adequately met the physical,
mental and spiritual needs of humanity. PROUT seeks a harmonious balance
between economic growth, social development, environmental sustainability,
and between individual and collective interests. Combining the wisdom of
spirituality with a universal outlook and the struggle for self-reliance,
PROUTist thinkers and activists are creating a new civilizational discourse
and planting the seeds for a new way of living.
A few basic tenets of PROUT are:
Spirituality and Progress
Human beings are on an evolutionary path toward realizing their higher consciousness.
True progress is movement that leads to self-realization and spiritual qualities
such as compassion and love for all beings. Material or intellectual gains
do not necessarily constitute progress unless they contribute to deeper,
spiritual well-being.
The progressive orientation of society is maintained by making continual
adjustments in the use of physical resources and mental potentialities in
accordance with spiritual and Neo-humanistic values. Human beings are encouraged
to construct economic and social institutions to facilitate the attainment
of our highest potentialities.
Economic Democracy
Political democracy and economic democracy are mutually inclusive. PROUT
advocates economic democracy based on local economic planning, cooperatively
managed businesses, local governmental control of natural resources and key
industries, and socially agreed upon limits on the individual accumulation
of wealth. By decentralizing the economy and making sure decision-making
is in the hands of local people, we can ensure the adequate availability
of food, shelter, clothing, health care and education for all.
A decentralized economy can better ensure that the ecological systems of
the earth are not exploited beyond their capacity to renew themselves. Environmental
stewardship is a requisite for people who are dependent upon these systems
for their own survival and well-being.
Basic Necessities Guaranteed to All
The basic necessities of life must be á constitutional birth right
of all members of society. People cannot attain their highest human potential
if they lack food, shelter, clothing, health care and education. Meaningful
employment with a living wage must be planned to ensure adequate purchasing
capacity for all basic necessities. The standard of guaranteed minimum necessities
should advance with increases in the economy's productive capacity.
Leadership
For a benevolent society, it is essential that leaders are morally principled
and dedicated to serving society as part of their personal progress. Authority
should not be centered in the hands of individuals, but should be expressed
through collective leadership. The viability of political democracy rests
on an electorate possessing three factors:
1) education,
2) socio-economic consciousness,
3) ethical integrity.
Freedom
Individuals should have complete freedom to acquire and express their ideas,
creative potential and inner aspirations. Such intellectual and spiritual
freedom will strengthen the collectivity. Restrictions should only be placed
on actions clearly detrimental to the welfare of others. Constraints need
to be placed on the accumulation of physical wealth, as excessive accumulation
by a few results in the deprivation of many.
Cultural Diversity
In the spirit of universal fellowship, PROUT encourages the protection and
cultivation of local culture, language, history and tradition. For social
justice and a healthy social order, individual and cultural diversity must
be accepted and encouraged.
Women's Rights
PROUT encourages the struggle against all forms of violence and exploitation
used to suppress women. PROUT's goal is coordinated cooperation, with equal
rights between men and women. PROUT seeks the economic, social and spiritual
empowerment of women throughout the world.
Science and Technology
Scientific knowledge and technology are potential assets to humanity. Through
their proper use, the physical hardships of life decreases and knowledge
is gained about the secrets of life. Time is freed for cultural and spiritual
pursuits. However, the development and utilization of scientific knowledge
must come under the guidance of spiritual and Neo-humanist values and ethical
leadership. Without this, technology is often abused by profiteers and the
power-hungry, resulting in destruction and exploitation.
World Government
PROUT supports the creation of a world governance system having a global
bill of rights, global constitution and common penal code in order to guarantee
the fundamental rights of all individuals and nations, and to settle regional
and international disputes. As the global economy becomes decentralized,
it will be advantageous to also have a global political system.
