A Changed Economy

Imagine an economy that supports the greater growth of people, families, our communities and the natural environment. This PBS documentary features David Brancacchio traveling across the US and discussing what a local based economy looks like when it is based on people and communities in accountable relationship to each other. The evidence is that the large, multi-national and impersonal business structure and economy swings from boom to bust. In the 60 minute film David interviews people on alternatives. Watch at 45:30 minutes into the film for the 'hour exchange'. In Portland, ME the hour exchange is a banking system of exchanged services. All services are valued by time, not a dollar amount. By giving an hour of service in your specialty field you receive an hour of service in exchange for receiving an hour in return.

Watch the full episode. See more NOW on PBS.

Expansion of Knowledge

This year is the 50th anniversary of the invention of the laser. It is being promoted by the American Physical Society on a website called LaserFest. What drew my attention was the amazing timeline of the inventions which has led to 8 Nobel prizes over the period. From CD and DVD players to defense systems, space applications and optical communications, the invention of the laser has expanded the way we live. It is a demonstration of the Law of Natural Growth described by Thomas Troward (1847-1916) in his Edinburgh Lectures. This law says that the Universe, Nature, Mankind has a natural tendency to expand. Where once was the chance to stimulate microwaves and amplify them further research expanded the principles to light radiation, then to electrons then to x-rays. Each invention relying on foundation principles of the previous generation. This is the way knowledge grows. You see it in humans, science and in understanding spiritual principles.