In this and this post, we delved into Manfred Max-Neef’s concept of Human Scale Development (HSD), which focuses on fundamental human needs and the satisfiers that fulfil them. These satisfiers are organized within a matrix, an example of which is depicted here. Now, the question arises: How can a community employ HSD to craft a more desirable future?

The procedure is essentially as follows: start by assembling a group of individuals that accurately represents the society, community, or institution in question. Ensure inclusivity by avoiding biases such as excluding women or minorities, and give everyone a voice. Next, collaboratively create a needs-satisfiers matrix through participatory means. This matrix should identify the most critical violators that hinder the realization of human needs within the specific society, community, or institution. These violators indicate the core challenges that need to be tackled.

Furthermore, whenever feasible, it’s valuable to construct a Utopia matrix. This matrix envisions ideal satisfiers that meet basic needs. While achieving the precise state depicted in the utopian matrix may pose challenges, the satisfiers listed within it should not be constrained by preconceived limitations. Once the Utopia matrix is available, it is important to determine which satisfiers of basic human needs could facilitate the transition from an undesirable situation to a more favourable one. For instance, Monica Guillén-Royo’s report on an HSD experience in Lleida, Spain, highlights negative satisfiers such as complexity, confusion, isolation, individualism, and time pressures. Conversely, the utopian matrix emphasizes simplicity, subsistence, a community-centred society, and time sovereignty. Bridging satisfiers in this case encompassed the regulation of working hours, direct democracy, the relocalisation of production activities, and self-knowledge.

Drawing from my own participation in a similar exercise some years ago, I vividly recall the focused reflection on my own community and the liberating feeling of envisioning an ideal future as a goal. While organizing an HSD group presents its challenges, a valuable resource providing insights and advice on this topic and HSD in general can be found, for instance, in Guillén-Royo’s book ‘Sustainability and Wellbeing’ (2016) and of course in Max-Neef’s 1991 book.

Imagine now the experience of being part of such a group, or initiate an informal one. What are the most significant violators or destroyers influencing the realization of human needs in your own community? What satisfiers your Utopia matrix comprises? How to move from your current situation to a more desirable one?