Collectivism is a social and political philosophy that emphasises the importance of groups and collective action over individual interests. Traditionally, collectivism advocates prioritising the common good, fostering cooperation, and ensuring equitable resource distribution.
In Australia, this can be quite a challenge, as Australians are often more self-reliant, and focus on looking after themselves and their immediate families rather than bigger groups. However, in many societies, collectivism is seen as a way to address social inequalities and create systems where everyone’s basic needs are met through collaborative efforts and communal decision-making.
Through his leadership at the UK-based and registered non-government organisation Compassiviste, Ali Horriyat has championed the principles of collectivism to drive numerous worldwide social initiatives. Horriyat has witnessed the benefits of placing collectivism at the core of Compassiviste, ranging from changes in individual behaviours to inspiring collective responsibility.
Collectivism emphasises how each person’s actions are interconnected within society, challenging the focus on individual contributions. Horriyat says, “In a collectivist framework, everyone is aware that their behaviour and choices contribute to either the greater good or potential harm. This awareness creates a sense of responsibility and accountability.”
For instance, in Compassiviste’s environmental initiatives, like their “Label Your Carbon” program, individuals are encouraged to understand how their carbon footprint affects global sustainability efforts. This collective mindset motivates people to adopt more eco-friendly practices, understanding that their positive or negative contributions collectively shape the environmental future.
Horriyat says, “Collectivism nurtures a society where individuals are more mindful of their actions and broader implications. This heightened sensitivity leads to a more responsible and empathetic community.”
When people empathise with the plight of others, they are more likely to engage in prosocial behaviours, such as volunteering, donating, or advocating for social change. This builds a community where individuals, especially those suffering, feel seen, heard, and supported. For Horriyat, it creates a network that practically improves the quality of life for all.
Horriyat draws an example from his work at Compassiviste Foundation. The foundation’s global donor network supports Syrian refugees at the Za’atari camp. Through collective efforts, these donors provide essential resources, education, and emotional support to the refugees, greatly improving their quality of life.
For the refugees, knowing that people worldwide are invested in their well-being instils a sense of community and hope. This communal support ensures that individuals suffering from the harsh realities of displacement are not alone, but part of a global network of care and compassion.
For Horriyat, collectivist societies are not about enforcing a single approach but about creating a community where, through diverse methods, everyone has a role to play in building a more empathetic and compassionate society. This approach encourages individuals to contribute their unique skills and perspectives toward a common goal, recognising that every effort can profoundly impact the greater good, no matter how small.
Compassiviste highlights this concept through various arms, including the Compassiviste Foundation, Compassiviste Publishing, Compassiviste Dialogues, Love Your Carbon, Compassiviste TV, and others. Each of these initiatives represents a different approach to addressing societal challenges, but they all share a common goal: to promote empathy, compassion, and positive change.
Whether through artistic expression, environmental activism, community outreach, or educational initiatives, every contribution is valued, appreciated, and recognised as a meaningful step toward building a more compassionate society.
Compassiviste, under the leadership of Horriyat, demonstrates the positive impacts of collectivist values on society. By prioritising collective well-being, fostering social harmony, and promoting shared goals, the organisation aims to build a more compassionate and sustainable future.
For Horriyat, championing collectivism through Compassiviste is his response to the urgent call for a change in how people interact with the environment and each other. This vision inspires action and hope, laying the groundwork for more causes that Compassiviste will address moving forward.
Compassiviste is a movement founded by Ali Horriyat, dedicated to addressing pressing global issues through social, environmental, and economic projects. Built on the principle of compassion, Compassiviste inspires and challenges individuals to live with empathy and love, utilizing various art forms to express and promote these values. Compassiviste funds its UK-based charity arm, the Compassiviste Foundation, which responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises, helping the afflicted and displaced to recover and rebuild their lives. Horriyat and Compassviste envision a world free of poverty, cruelty, and suffering, where humanity lives in harmony with the natural environment.
Comments