Introduction

The distributist lifestyle emphasizes the importance of living in harmony with one’s local community and environment, fostering a sense of self-reliance, sustainability, and interconnectedness. By adopting a distributist lifestyle, individuals can actively contribute to the realization of distributist principles in their own lives and communities, promoting a more equitable, sustainable, and resilient society.

Contents

1 Overview

1.1 Localism

Localism is a key aspect of the distributist lifestyle, focusing on the importance of supporting local economies and communities. By prioritizing the purchase of locally-produced goods and services, individuals can help to create a more resilient local economy while reducing the environmental impact of long-distance transportation. Localism also encourages active participation in local organizations and initiatives, fostering social cohesion and a sense of belonging. Can check section on banking[13].

1.2 Self-sufficiency

Self-sufficiency is another important element of the distributist lifestyle, emphasizing the value of producing one’s own goods and resources whenever possible. This may include growing one’s own food, maintaining a home garden, or participating in community-supported agriculture. Self-sufficiency not only promotes a deeper connection with the land and environment but also reduces dependence on large-scale, industrial food production. Can see section on education[8], food[11] and manufacturing[12].

1.3 Community Involvement

Active community involvement is essential to the distributist lifestyle, encouraging individuals to contribute to the common good and strengthen their local communities. This can be achieved by participating in local organizations, such as neighborhood associations, cooperatives, or volunteer groups. By working together, community members can address local challenges, support one another, and foster a sense of shared responsibility and purpose. Also can see section on location[4], community[5] and social media[7].

1.4 Simple Living

Embracing a lifestyle of simplicity and mindfulness is a core aspect of distributism. By focusing on the quality of one’s relationships and experiences rather than the accumulation of material possessions, individuals can cultivate a greater sense of well-being and contentment. Simple living also promotes environmental sustainability, as it encourages a more conscious use of resources and a reduced ecological footprint. For more details can see the section on simple living[14].

2 Distributist Lifestyle Examples

2.1 Anabaptists

The Anabaptists (Amish/Mennonites/Hutterites), a Christian movement that emerged during the 16th-century Protestant Reformation, have long practiced a lifestyle that aligns with many distributist principles. Their focus on community, simplicity, and self-sufficiency reflects the core tenets of distributism, emphasizing localism and the decentralization of economic power.

Anabaptist communities, such as the Amish, Mennonites, and Hutterites, are known for their strong emphasis on communal living, mutual aid, and shared resources. These groups often reject the consumer-driven and individualistic tendencies of modern society, instead valuing cooperation, humility, and stewardship of the earth. They frequently engage in small-scale agriculture, craftsmanship, and other forms of decentralized economic activity, prioritizing the well-being of their communities over personal profit.

Agriculture plays a central role in the Anabaptist distributist lifestyle. They typically practice sustainable farming methods, such as crop rotation, organic cultivation, and the use of draft animals instead of mechanized equipment, minimizing their ecological footprint. By producing much of their food and goods, these communities foster self-reliance and resilience in the face of economic fluctuations and external pressures.

Another key aspect of the Anabaptist distributist lifestyle is their commitment to simple living. This manifests in various ways, from the modest clothing they wear to the absence of many modern conveniences in their homes. This simplicity helps to reduce their resource consumption and environmental impact, while also fostering a sense of humility and gratitude for the gifts of the earth.

Education and mutual support are also essential components of the Anabaptist way of life. Communities often have their schools, which emphasize practical skills, religious teachings, and community values. They also prioritize taking care of their members, providing assistance to those in need and ensuring that everyone contributes to the common good.

Overall, the Anabaptist lifestyle embodies many distributist principles, prioritizing community, simplicity, and self-sufficiency. By focusing on localism and decentralized economic activity, these communities demonstrate the potential for an alternative way of living that promotes social cohesion, environmental stewardship, and economic resilience.

3 Catholic Worker Movement

The Catholic Worker Movement, founded by Dorothy Day and Peter Maurin in 1933, is a lay Catholic organization focused on social justice, voluntary poverty, and community living. The movement’s philosophy is deeply rooted in the principles of distributism, emphasizing the importance of economic and social decentralization, as well as the widespread ownership of property and the means of production.

The distributive lifestyle of the Catholic Worker Movement is centered around living in intentional communities, often called Catholic Worker Houses. These communities provide hospitality to the homeless, refugees, and other individuals in need, while also fostering a sense of solidarity among their members. The houses are typically run by volunteers and rely on donations to cover their operating expenses.

In line with distributist principles, the Catholic Worker Movement encourages its members to participate in local, small-scale, and cooperative enterprises. These endeavors include organic farming, cooperative housing, and artisanal crafts, all of which promote self-sufficiency and sustainability. By engaging in such activities, Catholic Workers aim to resist the consumerist and materialistic culture prevalent in contemporary society.

The Catholic Worker Movement also emphasizes the importance of personalism – the belief that individuals have a responsibility to engage directly with those in need, rather than relying solely on impersonal institutions or government programs. This commitment to personalism is evident in the movement’s advocacy for peace, social justice, and environmental stewardship.

Members of the Catholic Worker Movement actively participate in acts of civil disobedience and nonviolent protest to promote social change. They advocate for economic and political reforms that reflect the principles of distributism, including the decentralization of power and the establishment of worker-owned cooperatives.

In summary, the distributive lifestyle of the Catholic Worker Movement embodies the core principles of distributism by fostering a sense of community and solidarity, promoting local and sustainable enterprises, and advocating for economic and social justice. Through their commitment to intentional living, personalism, and nonviolent activism, Catholic Workers provide a powerful example of the potential benefits of a distributist lifestyle in the modern world.

3.1 Other

Several other groups and movements around the world embody aspects of the distributist lifestyle, focusing on localism, self-sufficiency, and community-based economics. Some examples include:

• Eco-villages: Eco-villages are intentional communities designed to minimize their ecological impact and foster a sustainable way of life. They often incorporate permaculture principles, renewable energy systems, and natural building techniques. Many eco-villages emphasize local economies, with members engaging in small-scale agriculture, craftsmanship, and other forms of decentralized economic activity.
• Mondragon Corporation: Based in the Basque Country, Spain, Mondragon is a federation of worker cooperatives that operates on a model of shared ownership, democratic management, and economic solidarity. With its focus on worker participation, equitable wealth distribution, and community development, the Mondragon model aligns with many distributist principles.
• Transition Towns Movement: This grassroots movement originated in the United Kingdom and has since spread worldwide. Transition Towns aim to build local resilience and self-sufficiency by fostering sustainable practices, relocalizing economies, and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Members of Transition Towns work together to develop local food systems, renewable energy projects, and community-based enterprises, embodying distributist principles.
• Kibbutzim in Israel: Kibbutzim are collective communities in Israel that have historically practiced communal living, shared resources, and local, self-sufficient economies. Members of a kibbutz work together in various sectors, such as agriculture, manufacturing, and education, with profits distributed equitably among the community. While modern kibbutzim have evolved and diversified, many still maintain elements of the distributist lifestyle.

These groups and movements, among others, showcase the diverse ways in which distributist principles can be implemented in practice. By prioritizing localism, self-sufficiency, and community-based economics, they offer alternative models of living that challenge the dominant paradigms of consumerism and centralization.

4 Location

Adopting a distributist lifestyle involves focusing on local, sustainable communities that prioritize the well-being of their members and the environment. One crucial aspect of this lifestyle is ideally moving to an area that is within its carrying capacity, ensuring that the community can provide for its inhabitants without overburdening the environment or depleting resources.

Dunbar’s number, proposed by British anthropologist Robin Dunbar, suggests that there is a cognitive limit to the number of stable social relationships that humans can maintain. This number, estimated to be around 150, provides a guideline for the ideal size of a community where meaningful connections and mutual support can be fostered. Similarly, Kirkpatrick Sale, a prominent advocate of bioregionalism and decentralization, argues that smaller communities are better suited to address local needs and maintain a sustainable way of life. Towns around 5,000 and cities around 50,000 were historically near the maximum size sustainable.

By choosing to live in a community that aligns with these principles, individuals can benefit from stronger social ties, increased self-sufficiency, and a higher quality of life. In such communities, resources can be managed more effectively, and decision-making can be more responsive to local needs. Furthermore, a focus on sustainability encourages the use of renewable energy sources, organic agriculture, and waste reduction, ultimately promoting long-term environmental stewardship.

Moving to a community within its carrying capacity can provide a framework for a distributist lifestyle. By emphasizing localism, sustainability, and strong social bonds, these communities can serve as an alternative model for living that addresses many of the challenges associated with modern urbanization and industrialization.

4.1 Carrying Capacity

Carrying capacity refers to the maximum number of individuals or organisms that an environment can support without causing degradation of the ecosystem or depletion of its resources. The concept is crucial in understanding the balance between human populations, resource consumption, and environmental sustainability. Carrying capacity varies across different eco-regions due to factors such as climate, soil fertility, water availability, and the existing ecosystem’s productivity.

The amount of land required to support one person sustainably depends on the eco-region and the specific land use practices implemented. It is challenging to provide a one-size-fits-all figure, as carrying capacity varies significantly based on factors such as agricultural methods, population density, and resource management. A hectare is roughly 2.5 acres. Here are some general guidelines for different eco-regions:

• Tropical rainforests: These regions have high biodiversity and productivity but are often threatened by deforestation and land conversion for agriculture. The carrying capacity for sustainable living in these areas is relatively high, with only an estimated 0.5-2 hectares per person needed to maintain ecological balance.
• Temperate forests and grasslands: These regions have moderate productivity and can support a lower carrying capacity. Depending on land use practices, such as organic farming and agroforestry, the required land per person can range from 2-5 hectares. With a largely plant based diet, and high efficiency as little as 1-2.5 hectares per person is possible.
• Arid and semi-arid regions: Deserts and drylands have low productivity due to limited water availability and soil fertility. In these areas, sustainable living may require a larger land area per person, ranging from 5-10 hectares or more, depending on the specific strategies employed to manage water and soil resources effectively.
• High mountain regions: These areas have limited arable land and face challenges due to harsh climate conditions and fragile ecosystems. The carrying capacity in these regions is typically low, and the land required per person for sustainable living can range from 3-7 hectares or more, depending on the local conditions and resource management practices.

It is essential to recognize that these figures are general estimates and that actual carrying capacities can vary significantly within each eco-region. The key to sustainable living lies in adopting land use practices that minimize resource depletion, promote biodiversity, and maintain ecological balance. This can include strategies such as organic agriculture, agroforestry, permaculture, and effective water management, which can help optimize the carrying capacity and ensure the long-term sustainability of human populations within various eco-regions.

5 Community

Distributist community involvement focuses on local autonomy, mutual aid, and shared responsibility. Here are some examples of distributist-inspired community involvement initiatives, including the role of places of worship like churches:

• Places of Worship: Churches, mosques, synagogues, and other places of worship often serve as community hubs, providing not only spiritual guidance but also support and resources for various community initiatives. They can organize food banks, clothing drives, and volunteer programs, fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility.
• Community Gardens: Community gardens are shared spaces where neighbors can grow food, flowers, and other plants together. They promote local food production, community engagement, and environmental stewardship, all of which align with distributist values.
• Time Banks and Skill-Sharing: Time banks and skill-sharing initiatives allow community members to exchange services and skills without using money. These programs foster mutual aid, cooperation, and resource-sharing, reinforcing distributist principles of local autonomy and self-sufficiency.
• Neighborhood Associations: Neighborhood associations are groups of residents who come together to address local issues, plan community events, and advocate for their neighborhood’s interests. These associations can promote distributist values by fostering community cohesion, local decision-making, and shared responsibility.
• Worker Cooperatives: Worker cooperatives are businesses that are owned and managed by their employees, emphasizing shared decision-making, fair wages, and community involvement. By supporting worker cooperatives, communities can promote distributist values and create a more equitable and localized economy.
• Buy Local Campaigns: Buy local campaigns encourage community members to support small, locally-owned businesses. These initiatives strengthen local economies, promote self-sufficiency, and foster community connections, all of which align with distributist principles.
• Community Education and Workshops: Distributist community involvement can include organizing and participating in educational workshops, skill-building sessions, and discussion groups. These initiatives can cover topics such as sustainable living, local food production, and cooperative business models, fostering community growth and knowledge-sharing.

These distributist-inspired community involvement examples aim to create a more equitable, sustainable, and locally focused society, promoting shared responsibility, cooperation, and mutual aid among community members.

6 Broadcasting Media

Distributist media broadcasting options aim to decentralize the production and distribution of media content, allowing for a greater diversity of voices, perspectives, and community involvement. These options promote a more equitable distribution of media ownership and empower local communities to create and share content relevant to their needs and interests. Here are some distributist media broadcasting options:

• Community Radio Stations: Community radio stations are non-profit, locally owned and operated broadcasting outlets that serve specific geographic areas. They focus on producing content that reflects local culture, news, and interests, providing a platform for local voices and promoting community engagement. These stations often rely on volunteers and prioritize community-based programming over commercial interests.
• Public Access Television: Public access television offers local community members the opportunity to create and broadcast their own television programs, providing a platform for diverse perspectives and community-based content. Public access stations typically offer free or low-cost training and equipment to community members, fostering media literacy and local engagement.
• Podcasts: Podcasting allows individuals and small groups to create, distribute, and share audio content on a wide range of topics. With relatively low production costs and easy accessibility, podcasting supports a diverse range of voices and perspectives. Podcasts can also be created collaboratively by communities or focus on hyper-local issues, fostering community engagement and empowerment.
• Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Sharing Networks: P2P sharing networks allow for decentralized distribution of digital media, including music, films, and books. These networks can facilitate the sharing of content produced by independent creators, bypassing traditional gatekeepers and allowing for a greater diversity of voices and perspectives.
• Open-Source Platforms: Open-source platforms, such as the Fediverse, enable the creation of decentralized social media networks and content-sharing sites. This model encourages community ownership, participation, and collaboration while reducing reliance on centralized, corporate-owned platforms.
• Co-operative Media Organizations: Co-operative media organizations are owned and operated by their members, who have a direct say in the governance and direction of the organization. This model can help to create more equitable and democratic media structures, with a focus on serving the needs and interests of the community rather than maximizing profits.
• Crowd-funded and Patron-supported Media: Crowd-funded and patron-supported media projects allow creators to receive financial support directly from their audience, bypassing traditional advertising and corporate funding models. This can enable independent creators to maintain editorial independence and focus on producing content that aligns with their values and the interests of their audience.

By exploring and supporting distributist media broadcasting options, communities can foster a more diverse, equitable, and democratic media landscape that better serves the needs and interests of all.

7 Social Media

Distributist forms of social media prioritize decentralization, local autonomy, privacy, and community involvement. Here are some examples of distributist-inspired social media platforms and communication tools:

• ActivityPub: ActivityPub is a decentralized social networking protocol that enables users to create, share, and interact with content across different platforms. It is the foundation for various social media platforms, including Mastodon and Pleroma. By promoting interoperability and decentralization, ActivityPub supports a diverse ecosystem of applications and communities that can communicate with each other, reinforcing distributist principles.
• Pleroma: Pleroma is a lightweight, open-source social networking platform built on the ActivityPub protocol. It allows users to host their own instances, creating a federated network of communities that can communicate with each other. Like Mastodon, Pleroma emphasizes local autonomy, privacy, and community moderation, aligning with distributist values.
• Tox: Tox is a P2P, open-source instant messaging and video-calling protocol designed with a focus on user privacy and security. It aims to provide an easy-to-use communication platform free from central authorities, where users can connect directly without relying on centralized servers. Tox uses end-to-end encryption to ensure that conversations remain private.
• Matrix: An open-source, decentralized communication protocol that supports chat, voice, and video communication. Matrix allows users to run their own servers, ensuring privacy and local control over data. It also supports end-to-end encryption and interoperability with other communication platforms.
• Mastodon: An open-source, decentralized social network that allows users to host their own servers (called "instances") and connect with others on the platform. Mastodon emphasizes user privacy, community moderation, and local autonomy, with each instance being able to set its own rules and moderation policies.
• Diaspora: A decentralized social network built on a distributed network of nodes, called "pods." Diaspora allows users to own their data and choose where it is stored, promoting privacy and data ownership. It also emphasizes local autonomy and user control over their online experience.
• Scuttlebutt: A P2P, decentralized social network designed for offline-first use and local community building. Scuttlebutt enables users to communicate and share content without relying on centralized servers, emphasizing privacy, autonomy, and resilience.
• Lemmy: An open-source, decentralized alternative to platforms like Reddit. Lemmy allows users to create their own communities and participate in discussions on a variety of topics. It emphasizes user control, privacy, and community moderation.

These distributist social media platforms aim to give users more control over their data, encourage local autonomy, and promote community-driven moderation. By doing so, they seek to create more equitable and democratic online spaces, in contrast to the centralized and data-driven models of traditional social media platforms.

8 Education

Distributist education focuses on decentralization, local autonomy, community involvement, and holistic development. Here are some examples of distributist-inspired educational approaches:

• Montessori Education: Developed by Maria Montessori, this educational approach emphasizes child-centered learning, with a focus on individual development and nurturing the whole child – intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically. Montessori schools often involve local communities and emphasize practical, hands-on learning experiences, aligning with distributist principles.
• Waldorf Education: Founded by Rudolf Steiner, Waldorf education aims to develop students’ intellectual, artistic, and practical skills in an integrated and holistic manner. It encourages local decision-making and community involvement, with a focus on developing well-rounded individuals who contribute to the common good.
• Homeschooling and Co-ops: Homeschooling enables parents and local communities to take a more active role in the education of their children, fostering local autonomy and subsidiarity. Homeschool cooperatives (co-ops) involve groups of families working together to provide educational experiences, pooling resources and expertise to create a more collaborative, community-driven learning environment.
• Community Schools: These schools focus on engaging local communities, families, and students in the educational process, often incorporating elements such as after-school programs, adult education, and other community services. Community schools emphasize the importance of a locally driven, holistic approach to education, aligning with distributist values.
• Free and Open Education Resources: Distributist education can also involve the use of free and open educational resources (OERs), which democratize access to knowledge by providing high-quality learning materials to everyone, regardless of socioeconomic status. Examples of OERs include platforms like Khan Academy, edX, Coursera, and MIT OpenCourseWare.

Distributist education emphasizes the importance of local autonomy, community involvement, and the holistic development of individuals, aiming to create a more equitable and sustainable educational system that contributes to the common good.

8.1 Z-Libary and Sci-Hub

Z-library and Sci-Hub can be considered distributist in some aspects, particularly in terms of decentralization and accessibility. Both platforms provide access to a vast array of books, articles, and other educational resources, with the goal of democratizing knowledge and making it more accessible to people around the world. By doing so, they challenge traditional centralized models of information distribution, such as paywalled academic journals and proprietary databases.

However, it is crucial to recognize that Z-library and Sci-Hub operate in a legal gray area, as they frequently host copyrighted materials without permission from copyright holders. While the intention of making knowledge more accessible aligns with distributist values, the potential infringement of intellectual property rights complicates their classification as purely distributist platforms.

In summary, Z-library and Sci-Hub exhibit some distributist qualities in terms of decentralization and knowledge accessibility, but their legality and compliance with property rights are contentious, making it difficult to categorize them as strictly distributist platforms.

9 File Sharing

Distributist forms of file sharing emphasize decentralization, community involvement, and local autonomy. Some examples of distributist-inspired file-sharing systems include:

• BitTorrent: A peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing protocol that allows users to distribute and download files in a decentralized manner. BitTorrent relies on a distributed network of users who share pieces of files, reducing the reliance on centralized servers and promoting a more equitable distribution of resources.
• InterPlanetary File System (IPFS): A distributed file system that aims to make the web faster, safer, and more open. IPFS uses a P2P network to share and distribute content, eliminating the need for centralized servers and promoting a more resilient and distributed internet infrastructure.
• Freenet: A decentralized, censorship-resistant platform for publishing and sharing files. Freenet uses a P2P network to store and distribute content, ensuring that no single authority can control access to information or take down content.
• Dat Project: A P2P protocol for sharing and versioning data sets or other large files. The Dat Project emphasizes decentralization and community-driven development, fostering collaboration and data sharing without relying on centralized servers.
• RetroShare: A P2P communication and file-sharing platform that provides secure and decentralized communication channels for its users. RetroShare focuses on privacy and community-based sharing, allowing users to create their own networks without relying on central authorities.

While these file-sharing systems align with distributist principles in terms of decentralization and community involvement, it is important to note that the use of these platforms for sharing copyrighted material without permission is illegal in many jurisdictions. Distributist ideals emphasize the importance of respecting property rights and promoting the common good, so it is essential to use these file-sharing systems responsibly and ethically.

10 Email

what are some or the most distributist email providers?

There are no specific email providers designed exclusively for distributism. However, you can consider email providers that align with distributist principles by focusing on privacy, decentralization, and community-driven development. Here are some email providers that reflect these values:

• ProtonMail: ProtonMail is a privacy-focused email provider based in Switzerland. It offers end-to-end encryption and zero access to user data. ProtonMail is developed by a team committed to privacy and security and operates under Swiss privacy laws, which provide strong data protection.
• Tutanota: Tutanota is another privacy-focused email provider based in Germany. It offers end-to-end encryption and is built on open-source technology. Tutanota is committed to safeguarding user data and operates under strict German privacy laws.
• Mailfence: Mailfence is a secure email provider based in Belgium that offers end-to-end encryption, digital signatures, and zero tracking. It operates under Belgian privacy laws, which ensure a high level of data protection.
• Posteo: Posteo is a German-based email provider focused on privacy, sustainability, and security. It offers encrypted email services, operates on green energy, and supports various privacy features, such as anonymous registration and payment.
• Runbox: Runbox is a privacy-focused email provider based in Norway that offers a secure and ad-free email service. It is committed to data protection and operates under Norwegian privacy laws, which are known for strong data protection regulations.

These email providers emphasize privacy, security, and user data protection, which align with distributist principles by empowering individuals and prioritizing the well-being of communities over the interests of large corporations.

11 Food

Distributist food production methods emphasize local, small-scale, and sustainable practices that prioritize community involvement and environmental stewardship. Here are some examples of distributist-inspired food production approaches, including food forests and permaculture:

• Permaculture: Permaculture is a design system and philosophy that seeks to create sustainable, regenerative, and self-sufficient ecosystems by mimicking natural processes. It integrates agriculture, water management, energy production, and community planning to promote distributist values in food production. Permaculture techniques can include companion planting, composting, and water harvesting.
• Food Forests: Food forests are a type of agroforestry system that mimics natural woodland ecosystems to produce food, fuel, and other resources. They incorporate a diverse array of edible and useful plants, including fruit and nut trees, shrubs, herbs, and groundcover species. Food forests support local, self-sufficient food production, encourage biodiversity, and foster community involvement.
• Community Supported Agriculture (CSA): CSA programs connect local farmers directly with consumers, who subscribe to receive regular shares of the harvest. This model supports small-scale, sustainable agriculture and promotes community involvement in food production.
• Urban Gardening: Urban gardening involves growing food in cities, utilizing spaces such as rooftops, balconies, and vacant lots. This approach supports distributist values by encouraging local food production, community engagement, and sustainable land use.
• Small-Scale Livestock: Raising small-scale livestock, such as poultry, rabbits, or goats, can provide an accessible, low-impact way for individuals and communities to produce their own food. This approach aligns with distributist values by promoting local food production and self-sufficiency.
• Cooperative Farming: Cooperative farming involves a group of small-scale farmers working together to share resources, knowledge, and labor. This model supports distributist values by fostering community involvement, local autonomy, and sustainable agriculture practices.

These distributist-inspired food production methods aim to create a more equitable, sustainable, and locally focused food system that prioritizes community involvement, environmental stewardship, and self-sufficiency.

12 Manufacturing

Distributist manufacturing emphasizes small-scale, locally owned, and sustainable production methods that prioritize worker ownership and community involvement. Here are some examples of distributist-inspired manufacturing approaches:

• Worker Cooperatives: These are businesses owned and managed by the people who work in them. Worker cooperatives prioritize the well-being of their members and the community, often focusing on sustainable and local production practices. Profits are shared among workers, and decision-making power is distributed equally.
• Artisanal and Craft Production: Small-scale, locally owned workshops and studios that produce handcrafted goods reflect distributist values. These enterprises prioritize craftsmanship, local materials, and sustainable practices while supporting the local economy and community.
• Community-Supported Manufacturing (CSM): In a CSM model, local communities invest in and support manufacturing enterprises. This approach encourages local ownership, fosters community connections, and promotes more sustainable and ethical production practices.
• Cottage Industries: Small-scale, home-based businesses that produce goods or provide services exemplify the distributist ideal of decentralized, local economic activity. Cottage industries can include anything from food production and textile crafts to woodworking and metalworking.
• Makerspaces and Fab Labs: Community-based workshops that provide access to tools, resources, and knowledge for local artisans, inventors, and entrepreneurs encourage distributist manufacturing. These spaces foster collaboration, skill-sharing, and local production, contributing to a more equitable and self-sufficient economy.
• Local Supply Chains: Distributist manufacturing can also involve the development of local and regional supply chains, connecting small-scale producers, suppliers, and distributors. This approach reduces the dependence on global supply chains, supports local economies, and promotes more sustainable and ethical production practices.

These distributist-inspired manufacturing approaches aim to create a more equitable, sustainable, and locally focused economy that prioritizes worker ownership, community involvement, and environmental stewardship.

12.1 Tools

Advanced tools and technologies, such as 3D printers, CNC machines, sewing machines, and other manufacturing equipment, empower distributed custom manufacturing and align with distributist values by enabling local production, self-sufficiency, and community involvement. Here’s how these tools contribute to distributist manufacturing:

• 3D Printers: 3D printing technology allows individuals and small businesses to produce custom parts, prototypes, and products on-demand. By enabling local, decentralized production, 3D printers empower communities to become more self-sufficient and less reliant on large-scale, centralized manufacturing facilities.
• CNC Machines: Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines automate cutting, milling, and other manufacturing processes with high precision. CNC machines are versatile and can be used for various materials, enabling small-scale producers to create custom products efficiently and locally. This technology supports distributist values by promoting local production and craftsmanship.
• Sewing Machines: Sewing machines enable individuals and small businesses to create custom clothing, textiles, and other fabric-based products. This tool empowers local artisans and manufacturers to produce high-quality, unique items while supporting local economies and fostering community self-sufficiency.
• Other Manufacturing Tools: A wide range of tools and equipment, such as laser cutters, vinyl cutters, and woodworking tools, can be used to create custom products and promote distributist manufacturing. These tools empower individuals, artisans, and small businesses to engage in local production, fostering community resilience and sustainability.

By providing access to these advanced manufacturing tools, communities can nurture local innovation, entrepreneurship, and craftsmanship. This, in turn, leads to a more decentralized, resilient, and self-sufficient economy, in line with distributist principles.

13 Banking

As part of Distributist Lifestyle you can choose to use a distributive banking service.

Distributist banking is characterized by smaller, community-oriented financial institutions that prioritize the well-being of their members and the local economy. Examples of distributist banking institutions include:

• Credit unions: Member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperatives that provide a wide range of banking services to their members. Credit unions typically reinvest their profits in the form of better interest rates, lower fees, and enhanced services for their members. They also tend to focus on serving the local community and supporting small businesses.
• Community development financial institutions (CDFIs): Specialized financial institutions that serve low-income communities and individuals who are underserved by traditional banks. CDFIs provide loans, investments, and financial services to support community development, job creation, and affordable housing.
• Mutual banks and building societies: Financial institutions owned by their customers or members, which often focus on providing mortgages and savings products. Profits are usually reinvested to improve services, offer competitive rates, and support the local community.
• Local currencies: Alternative forms of currency that are designed to be used within a specific geographic area, typically to promote local spending and support small businesses. Local currencies can be issued in both physical and digital forms and are often backed by a national currency. Examples of local currencies include the Bristol Pound in the UK, the BerkShares in the US, and the Chiemgauer in Germany.
• Community investment funds: Locally focused investment vehicles that pool capital from individual and institutional investors to finance projects and enterprises that benefit the community. These funds can support local businesses, affordable housing, renewable energy projects, and other initiatives that align with distributist values.

By supporting these forms of distributist banking, communities can foster greater economic resilience, promote local self-sufficiency, and encourage more equitable wealth distribution.

13.1 Crypto currencies

Cryptocurrencies can be considered a form of distributism in certain aspects, but not in others. The primary distributist aspect of cryptocurrencies lies in their decentralized nature, which allows for a more distributed control of financial transactions and wealth, as opposed to the centralized control found in traditional banking systems.

Cryptocurrencies can facilitate peer-to-peer transactions without intermediaries, empowering individuals and communities to manage their own financial affairs. This aligns with the distributist principle of subsidiarity, which emphasizes local decision-making and autonomy.

However, some aspects of cryptocurrencies do not align with distributist principles. For instance, the ownership of cryptocurrencies can be highly concentrated, leading to wealth inequality. Moreover, the environmental impact of some cryptocurrencies, particularly those using proof-of-work mining algorithms like Bitcoin, can be significant and unsustainable, contradicting the distributist emphasis on sustainable development.

Overall, cryptocurrencies can be seen as a tool with distributist potential, but their alignment with distributist principles depends on how they are designed, used, and regulated. If cryptocurrencies can promote widespread ownership, support local economies, and contribute to environmental sustainability, they could be considered a form of distributism.

There are some cryptocurrencies and blockchain projects that align better with distributist principles due to their focus on sustainability, decentralization, and community-driven development. Some examples include:

• FairCoin (FAIR): FairCoin is a cryptocurrency developed by the FairCoop, an open cooperative that aims to create a global economic system based on fairness and sustainability. FairCoin uses a more energy-efficient consensus mechanism called Proof-of-Cooperation, which minimizes its environmental impact.
• Circles (CRC): Circles is a cryptocurrency designed as a universal basic income system. Each user receives a certain amount of Circles coins, and these coins can be used to transact within local communities, fostering local economies and mutual support.
• Holochain (HOT): Holochain is a decentralized computing platform designed to enable more efficient, resilient, and scalable peer-to-peer applications. It promotes decentralization and local autonomy, which aligns with the principle of subsidiarity in distributism.
• Banano (BAN): Banano is a cryptocurrency with a focus on feeless and near-instant transactions. It uses a more environmentally friendly consensus mechanism called Delegated Proof of Stake (dPoS), and has a strong emphasis on community involvement and fair distribution.
• Gridcoin (GRC) is a cryptocurrency that aligns with certain distributist principles, such as sustainable development and decentralization, by incentivizing individuals to participate in volunteer computing projects supporting scientific research and other beneficial causes. Through its Proof-of-Research consensus mechanism, Gridcoin rewards users for donating their computing power to projects on the Berkeley Open Infrastructure for Network Computing (BOINC) platform, which hosts a variety of scientific and research initiatives. By encouraging the use of computing power for productive purposes rather than competitive mining, Gridcoin promotes environmental sustainability, decentralization, and the common good.

While these cryptocurrencies and blockchain projects exhibit some distributist qualities, it is essential to remember that they are still evolving, and their long-term alignment with distributist principles will depend on their development, adoption, and real-world impact. It is crucial to research and assess each project individually to determine its compatibility with distributist ideals.

14 Simple Living

Distributist simple living emphasizes a lifestyle that prioritizes local self-sufficiency, sustainability, and community engagement. Here are some examples of distributist-inspired simple living practices:

• Local and Homegrown Food: Growing your own food, participating in community gardens, or supporting local farmers and food producers promotes self-sufficiency and strengthens local economies. Eating seasonally and preserving food can further reduce reliance on global supply chains and promote sustainability.
• Minimalism and Mindful Consumption: Embracing minimalism by reducing material possessions and focusing on quality over quantity aligns with distributist values. Mindful consumption encourages individuals to consider the environmental and social impact of their purchases, supporting ethical and sustainable businesses.
• DIY and Repair Culture: Engaging in do-it-yourself (DIY) projects and repairing items instead of replacing them promotes self-sufficiency, reduces waste, and fosters a sense of independence and resilience.
• Active Transportation: Choosing active transportation options such as walking, biking, or using public transit reduces dependence on fossil fuels, promotes health, and supports a more sustainable and community-oriented lifestyle.
• Sharing Economy: Participating in the sharing economy through initiatives like tool libraries, car-sharing, and skill-sharing supports community cooperation, resource conservation, and distributist values.
• Energy Conservation and Renewable Energy: Reducing energy consumption through efficiency measures and investing in renewable energy sources like solar or wind power contribute to a sustainable, self-sufficient lifestyle in line with distributist principles.
• Community Involvement and Mutual Aid: Actively participating in community events, volunteering, and supporting local initiatives fosters a sense of belonging and shared responsibility, essential aspects of distributist simple living.
• Sustainable Housing: Choosing smaller, energy-efficient homes, or exploring alternative housing options like co-housing or eco-villages supports sustainability, community engagement, and distributist values.
• Slow Living: Embracing slow living by prioritizing meaningful relationships, leisure time, and personal well-being over consumerism and material wealth aligns with the principles of distributism.

These distributist-inspired simple living practices promote a more sustainable, community-focused, and self-sufficient lifestyle that values quality of life, environmental stewardship, and meaningful connections over materialism and consumerism.

15 Books

Here is a list of books that can help people learn and understand distributism and the distributist lifestyle:

• "The Outline of Sanity" by G.K. Chesterton – This book serves as a foundational text for distributism, presenting Chesterton’s critiques of capitalism and socialism and his vision for a more equitable economic system.
• "The Servile State" by Hilaire Belloc – Belloc, a close friend and collaborator of Chesterton, argues for distributism as a means to avoid the servile state created by capitalism and socialism.
• "Small is Beautiful: Economics as if People Mattered" by E.F. Schumacher – Schumacher’s influential work emphasizes the importance of local economies, small-scale production, and sustainability, ideas that align with distributist principles.
• "Distributist Perspectives: Volume I" edited by John Sharpe – This collection of essays by various authors explores different aspects of distributism and its relevance in modern society.
• "The Third Way: Reflections on Distributism" by John Médaille – Médaille’s book offers a comprehensive introduction to distributism and its potential as an alternative economic model.
• "Rerum Novarum: On the Condition of the Working Classes" by Pope Leo XIII – This encyclical from Pope Leo XIII addresses social and economic issues and serves as a foundational text for Catholic social teaching, which greatly influenced the development of distributism.
• "The Distributist Manifesto" by Arthur Penty – An early work on distributism that provides a detailed examination of its principles and goals.
• "The Humane Economy: A Distributist Blueprint for the 21st Century" by Race Mathews – Mathews offers a modern analysis of distributism and its potential to address contemporary economic and social challenges.
• "Beyond Capitalism & Socialism: A New Statement of an Old Ideal" edited by Tobias J. Lanz – This anthology presents essays from various authors discussing the merits of distributism as an alternative to capitalism and socialism.
• "Localism in the Mass Age: A Front Porch Republic Manifesto" edited by Mark T. Mitchell and Jason Peters – This collection of essays promotes localism and small-scale communities, themes that align with the distributist lifestyle.

These books provide a solid foundation for understanding the principles of distributism and offer guidance for living a distributist lifestyle. By reading and engaging with these texts, one can gain valuable insights into the potential benefits and challenges of implementing distributist policies and practices in today’s world.