Welcome to Parallel Society

What does that mean you might ask? Well, it has an 'official' definition, and then there’s my definition... or a different view of that definition.

Wikipedia says:

Parallel society refers to the self-organization of an ethnic or religious minority, often but not always immigrant groups, with the intent of a reduced or minimal spatial, social, and cultural contact with the majority society into which they immigrate.

However, that description leaves it rather vague regarding the whole concept, and it also focuses only on immigrant groups. There’s a perspective on the term that was suggested by an opposer under Soviet communist rule, the president of Czechoslovakia, Vaclav Havel. He spoke of a tactic to fight totalitarianism called, ‘parallel structures’. A parallel structure, according to Czech philosophers, is virtually any establishment – business, institution, organization, technology, or creative pursuit – that exists physically in a totalitarian society, yet morally outside of it.

Havel made note that this tactic was the only way to effectively fight totalitarianism. He and other philosophers noted that these parallel structures were even better at fighting the communist rule than political action. Enough of these parallel structures standing together, formed a parallel society – a freedom from the chains of totalitarianism.

This idea – that there can exist small structures that veer from an oppressive government and it's ideology– and can choose to live outside of its restrictions, is the idea that inspired the creation of this business and a different way of life entirely. We aim to stray from the mainstream avenues of living, partially because we have been blessed with the opportunity to do so, and partially because we feel it is a part of our grander path to do so.

We want to spend the time we have been gifted pursuing creative projects that bring us and others joy, and also make the world a better place. We want to learn as much as we can, and share that with others in an easy, direct way.

We want to demonstrate how you can pursue what is meaningful by placing what is truly important at the top of your list. How being connected to each other, with nature, and with your creative being, you can bring you to a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you.

We are so happy to have you join us into our journey to a simpler life. We love to hear stories, meet people, and get inspired. Please comment down below and let us know what YOU think about parallel societies and their meaning. Also, consider joining our email list to stay updated on shop news, blog posts, and inspirational videos!

Check out the video below by YouTube creator: Academy of Ideas for a more educational understanding of the theory of a parallel society:

"If it proves impossible legally to compel the ruling power to change the ways it governs us, and if... those who reject this power... do not wish to overthrow it by force, then the creation of an independent or alternative or parallel [society] is the only dignified solution."

-Ivan Jirous