Using this space as a little cross-pollinator, I am particularly interested in Eric Bonabeau's work on evolutionary computing. How can we start political movements, messages and policy initiatives that quickly release indicator feedback allowing advocates "hone in" on the opportunities across the body politic like ants to crumbs.
An ant crawls out of its hill and marches toward a half-eaten Twinkie. Another treks to a puddle of water. Others plot routes to their own diminutive chores. Along the way, each lays down a pheromone trail that, over time, tells co-workers where it has been, what hazards to avoid, and which path offers the quickest way home. - Business2.0
The nonprofit and progressive "big tent" agenda is particularly well suited to playing with this model. Our centralized leadership is intellectually bankrupt, out of touch and confused by the loss of the meta-narrative. If we can create an opportunistic political climate we will see higher levels of engagement resulting in incrementally populist policies.
