At Vivarium we have a particular way of understanding life in the community, that is represented by our values and principles.
<aside> 💡 These values and principles conform a minimal ethic. It doesn’t aim to provide guidance on how to behave in every particular situation or an ideal of how things should be; but the minimum basic principles needed for the community to run smoothly.
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Throughout time we have been improving them to better reflect the intentions of the community and to do so in a very pragmatic and actionable way.
Of course, we expect them to keep evolving with the input of all the colivers, including yours, as we gain experience as a community.
We understand that our community will never be perfect for every member but with our actions we strive to make it perfect for all. To the best of our ability, we look common good while taking care of our individual needs, which means that when trying to fulfill our own purposes we are also taking into account those of others.
When we expect something from others or from the community it is always because first we are doing something for others or for the community, although when we give we don't necessarily expect something in return.
The community is built by each and every one of us. If we think something is not working or could work better, we lead the search for a (better) solution and ask for support if needed. We take responsibility for the shared experience in the community and are actively engaged in it.
We are coexisting with a diverse group of individuals. We approach others in the community with an honest interest in getting to know them and to understand their reality. We might disagree on many ideas but we always maintain respect for the person that holds them.
We make an effort to understand our own needs and to communicate them when necessary in the best way we can. At the same time we create space for others’ needs to be expressed, pursued and fulfilled through the community. Our actions are based on a humble intention to collaborate with others’s wellbeing and happiness.