Emergent Strategy: Shaping Change, Changing Worlds

“I love knowing that the practices of mimicking the natural world have been happening since humans came into existence. This is actually an ancient practice, a recovery rather than a discovery.”

brown highlights the concept of biomimicry as an ancient and inherent practice. The notion of recovery rather than discovery suggests that the principles of emergent strategy grounded in this practice are not a new phenomenon, but rather a reconnection with the age-old wisdom found in the natural world. It implies that by observing and imitating nature’s design, humans can tap into a well of knowledge and inspiration.

“[W]hat we practice at the small scale sets the patterns for the whole system.”

brown highlights the fractal element of emergent strategy, where she recognizes the far-reaching consequences small actions and choices made by individuals can have. It also underscores the importance of agency, as she encourages readers to notice their power to shape systems, starting at the personal and local levels.

“I am a cell-sized unit of the human organism, and I have to use my life to leverage a shift in the system by how I am, as much as with the things I do.”

brown reflects on individual agency and personal responsibility within the larger context of collective change. By referring to herself as a “cell-sized unit” of the human organism, she emphasizes the interconnectedness of all individuals and their potential to influence systemic shifts. The use of the term “leverage” suggests a strategic approach, indicating that the author recognizes the need to utilize actions, behaviors, and presence as catalysts for transformation.

“My vision is changing our how, more than seeing clearly our what.”

brown emphasizes the importance of reevaluating methods and strategies rather than solely focusing on the desired outcome. This suggests a departure from traditional linear thinking and a greater appreciation for the means through which transformation is pursued, encouraging a more intentional and holistic approach to activism and organizing.

“I learned in school how to deconstruct—but how do we move beyond our beautiful deconstruction? Who teaches us to reconstruct?”

brown juxtaposes positive and negative forms of the word “construct” to emphasize the contrast between emergent strategy and traditional organizing lenses. She raises a fundamental question about the limitations of theoretically scrutinizing systems and ideologies, as this practice does not tend to be followed by proactive remaking. brown seeks to go beyond the process of deconstructing by offering a framework, a roadmap for rebuilding in transformative ways.

“How do we cultivate the muscle of radical imagination needed to dream together beyond fear? Showing Black and white people sitting at a lunch counter together was science fiction.”

brown borrows from subgenres of speculative fiction, such as science fiction and visionary fiction, to pinpoint how radical imagination can be a necessary tool for envisioning a future that transcends fear and oppressive systems. The reference to the image of Black and white people sitting together at a lunch counter as science fiction illustrates the radical nature of such a visionary thought during a time of deep racial segregation. Through the transformative power of speculative thinking, Black community leaders challenged the status quo of the time.

“Change happens. Change is definitely going to happen, no matter what we plan or expect or hope for or set in place. We will adapt to that change, or we will become irrelevant.”

The author conveys the importance of cultivating adaptative abilities as a means of staying relevant and effective in a rapidly evolving world. The inevitability of change poses a sense of urgency and the need for individuals and systems to be responsive to evolving circumstances. She also alludes to the theme of agency and the power of choice by suggesting individuals and communities can shape their responses to change and influence the relevance of their practices.

“Emergent strategy is something I am still discovering, but a lot of it, for me, feels like tuning into the natural operating systems of this universe and being humbled, as opposed to trying to barrel through and against all the change, trying to best nature.”

Working in harmony with the natural world and exercising humility and reverence toward the larger forces at play are reoccurring warnings in emergent strategy work. brown emphasizes the need to acknowledge limitations and recognize that change cannot be forced, controlled, or resisted; rather it requires openness, adaptability, and an appreciation for the organic unfolding of events.

“Do you already know that your existence—who and how you are—is in and of itself a contribution to the people and place around you? Not after or because you do some particular thing, but simply the miracle of life.”

brown evokes a sense of awe and appreciation for the intricate web of life and the inherent value of all living beings. The author invites readers to recognize their agency in the ongoing process of transformation and emphasizes the innate potential for their actions, thoughts, and energy to ripple out and create meaningful change.

“On many levels, interdependence requires being seen, as much as possible, as your true self.”

The concept of being seen as one’s true self speaks to the idea that genuine connections and meaningful relationships are formed when individuals show up authentically, embracing their true identities, experiences, and vulnerabilities. This notion emphasizes the importance of vulnerability, trust, and genuine engagement in building interdependent relationships and communities.

“Lifting people up based on personality replicates the dynamics of power and hierarchy that movements claim to be dismantling.”

brown speaks to the underlying theme of transformative change and the need to challenge and dismantle oppressive systems at their core. When considering the potential pitfalls of replicating power dynamics and hierarchies within movements, brown suggests that true liberation requires a shift away from charismatic leadership models and a focus on collective power and shared decision-making.

“Let’s spend less time on the imperfection of the process, and more time articulating and crystalizing our lessons.”

brown sees experimentation as an imperative in the actualizing process of emergent strategy. Instead of dwelling on the flaws or challenges of implementation, brown encourages adaptation and a reflective mindset to extract valuable insights during one’s social change journey.

“Humans, especially humans who persist in trying to transform the conditions of life, are remarkably resilient.”

Perseverance and the indomitable spirit of individuals who dedicate themselves to creating positive change show humanity’s capacity to overcome challenges and obstacles in pursuit of transformative goals. By acknowledging the resilience of those who strive for transformation, the author evokes a sense of admiration and respect, inspiring readers to reflect on their own resilience and capacity for growth.

“Part of the resilience in nature is that nothing in nature is wasted.”

When considering transformative justice as an alternative to punitive methods, brown champions the idea of mending conflict through reparation rather than destruction. In nature, all systems operate in a way that maximizes efficiency and sustainability, even in the face of harm and violence. Every element has a purpose and contributes to the overall adaptability of ecosystems. brown encourages a shift in how violence and conflict are dealt with in social movements and communities that mirrors this natural quality and offers transformative justice as a way to address conflict through reparative processes.

“When we imagine the world we want to shift towards, are we dreaming of being the winners of the future? Or are we dreaming of a world where winning is no longer necessary because there are no enemies?”

brown raises thought-provoking questions about the underlying values and visions of social movements and their aspirations for the future. The notion of “being the winners of the future” implies a continuation of existing systems of dominance and hierarchy, where success is defined in terms of triumphing over others. In contrast, the idea of “a world without enemies” invites a different practice, one where collaboration is the driving force and the need for competition and adversarial relationships is obsolete.

“[I]n order to create a world that works for more people, for more life, we have to collaborate on the process of dreaming and envisioning and implementing that world.”

Engaging in creative exploration is one of the main exercises that prompted the creation of the emergent strategy framework. Artistic outlets serve as powerful tools for imagining social change as they inspire new ways of thinking and disrupt established patterns and assumptions. Individuals can tap into their creative potential, connect over common goals, and collectively contribute to the process of imagining a world that works for all.

“The more people who cocreate the future, the more people whose concerns will be addressed from the foundational level in this world.”

brown’s case for diversity feeds on the role of collaborative leadership and is, for her, an essential element in effective community organizing. By having people from marginalized communities at the forefront of decision-making, it is possible to address complex societal challenges in a way that benefits the communities targeted.

“[A]ll organizing is science fiction.”

Articulated with Walidah Imarisha, who co-authored Octavia’s Brood (2015) with brown, this statement encapsulates the profound insight that social justice work is the result of a collective dream. By invoking the term “science fiction,” brown alludes to the imaginative and speculative nature of the genre. Science fiction often presents alternative realities and speculative scenarios that challenge social norms and power structures. Similarly, community organizing requires the ability to imagine new structures that disrupt oppressive systems.

“Imagination is one of the spoils of colonization, which in many ways is claiming who gets to imagine the future for a given geography.”

This statement sheds light on how dominant narratives and ideologies shape the collective understanding of what is possible, limiting the capacity to envision alternative futures. Marginalized individuals and communities find themselves within the confines of someone else’s imagination, often to the detriment of their well-being. brown expresses a sense of urgency in reclaiming and activating one’s own imagination as a tool for liberation.

“The future is not an escapist place to occupy. All of it is the inevitable result of what we do today […].”

brown highlights the importance of intentional and mindful action in shaping the world we want to inhabit by underlining that the future is not a distant and separate realm, predetermined or out of our control, but rather an extension of current choices and efforts.

“Often the biggest support we need is to speak the truth out loud to those who will hold it with us from a vantage point of unconditional love.”

brown recognizes the transformative power of friendships as spaces for coevolution. She highlights the importance of vulnerability and empathy within these relationships. By engaging in open conversations, individuals can disrupt self-deprecating patterns and foster intentional and present ways of being.

“One of the primary principles of emergent strategy is trusting the people. […] Trust is a seed that grows with attention and space. The facilitator can be a gardener, or the sun, the water.”

brown emphasizes the relevance of trust in fostering growth and empowerment. Trust is personified as a seed that requires attention and space to flourish, suggesting that it is not something that can be forced or imposed but rather nurtured and cultivated. The imagery of a gardener, sun, and water furthers the notion that trust, like a plant, needs the right conditions to flourish.

“Learning in community helps us see how our own ideas are shifting over time. Hopefully we develop and change with time, applying life experience to our way of seeing the world.”

Engaging in dialogue and sharing ideas with others allows one to witness how perspectives and beliefs evolve over time. brown explains that through these interactions, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of the world and themselves and pinpoint where change is needed. This process of continuous learning and adaptation is essential for personal and collective growth, as it encourages embracing change and challenging assumptions.