UPDATE 1/21/10: Just a friendly reminder: This is happening at 7 p.m. ET tonight, at Etsy and in the Virtual Labs! See you there.
Looking to expand your horizons? Join us for the second installment of the Etsy Speaker Series at the Etsy Labs in DUMBO, Brooklyn, USA.
Following up on our first Speaker Series event with Rasmus Lerdorf, award-winning writer, documentary filmmaker and scholar Douglas Rushkoff joins us Thursday, January 21. Rushkoff made the PBS Frontline documentaries Merchants of Cool, The Persuaders, and the upcoming Digital Nation premiering February 2. His book, Life Inc.: How the World Became a Corporation And How To Take It Back, traces how corporations went from a convenient legal fiction to the dominant fact of contemporary life. Watch Life Inc. The Movie above for a 9-minute summary.
Mr. Rushkoff will be speaking about the creation of value and how to exchange it directly with others.
Come on down on January 21, 2010, at 7 p.m. ET at Etsy, 55 Washington Street, Suite 512, Brooklyn, NY 11201. This is a free event open to the public and refreshments will be provided. Please RSVP here.
If you’re not in the New York area, you can join us through a live web-broadcast in the Virtual Labs, Etsy’s online multi-user chat room of the future. (You don’t need to RSVP. You just need to be signed in to Etsy. Registering for an Etsy account is free. Learn more about how Etsy’s online multi-user Virtual Labs work.)
Praise for Life Inc.:
“This is an urgent book, essential reading about an important topic you’ve probably never considered before. Like all great books, it will open your eyes to a whole new way of thinking. I hope that everyone gets a chance to read it, before it’s too late.”
- Seth Godin
“Read this book if you want to understand how the current economic meltdown started 400 years ago, how so much of what you consider to be a natural evolution of daily life was carefully designed to profit a few, and how corporatism has so colonized every part of life that most of us don’t even recognize how our lives and fortunes are channeled and manipulated by it. I love that Rushkoff isn’t afraid to think big—very big.”
- Howard Rheingold, author of Smart Mobs
“Hand wringing over the state of the global economy? Think again. Douglas Rushkoff explains why this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to remember what matters, and to rethink our economic system so it reinforces our human values. A profound and important call to action.”
- Tim O’Reilly, Founder & CEO of O’Reilly Media
Have you read Rushkoff’s books or seen his documentaries? What do you think? Leave it in the comments below.
115 comments
Sign in to add your owncraftscafe says:
Etsy's helping take it back by promoting all things handmade!
2 years ago
allthingswhite says:
this is one of the many reasons why I love etsy
2 years ago
AudreyGardenLady says:
Thank you Etsy for being there for the individual shop owner and always providing great visionary resources!! AudreyGardenLady
2 years ago
MelroseFields says:
This is great for the Etsy community! Thank You!!
2 years ago
babinka1981knitting says:
Thanks etsy! interesting!
2 years ago
SandBagsDesigns says:
Thanks for the info. on this great resource. Really like the fun "lost in forest" magnets!
2 years ago
sewlola says:
Very interesting! I am looking forward to watch the live broadcast and read the book.
2 years ago
VintageEyeFashion says:
sign me up!
2 years ago
bysweetmom says:
Thanks Etsy!
2 years ago
MadeForYouJustByMe says:
INdeed, very interesting. Thank you, Etsy for all your resources!
2 years ago
greencouchdesign says:
Love the related items! I'm in on creating a new society based in love and mutual support!
2 years ago
twoknit says:
Thanks!!!
2 years ago
yummyandcompany says:
will definitely be watching in the virtual lab!
2 years ago
cozettebyclearcat says:
Wow, thanks Etsy~!!!
2 years ago
Aquanetta says:
I live in LA, but I'll be watching :)
2 years ago
TheCottageCheese says:
Looking forward to seeing this! (P.S. Love the feather hair clips).
2 years ago
jewelrybyjackie says:
Sounds like it will be very insightful, hope to make it!
2 years ago
woolbrain says:
Etsy and handmade :) will be watching. Also love the portable chicken coop...I grew up with something similar..you see if you wait long enough things come back around...but I don't want all things back ....indoor plumping is great :)
2 years ago
MonikaDesign says:
Thank you so much for this....I'm looking forward to watch the live broadcast...
2 years ago
faerwear says:
Doug is a really old friend of mine and an excellent writer and speaker - I highly recommend this if you're in the area. Go doug!
2 years ago
woolbrain says:
oops ! sorry added twice
2 years ago
theeye says:
dumbo?
2 years ago
TimeEchoVintage says:
All this said as the numbers and company names scroll across his chest...strange mix, but interesting nonetheless!
2 years ago
beautifulbridget says:
Thanks Etsy!!
2 years ago
BabbidgePatch says:
Engaging speaker and insightful discussion!
2 years ago
craftpile says:
encouraging and I will try to tune in tonight!
2 years ago
Ebruk says:
Thanks Etsy
2 years ago
breadandroses says:
Couldn't agree more & will be viewing this. Essentially, I think Doug is speaking of our present opportunity for a paradigm shift but the state of affairs of which he speaks took hundreds of years to culminate in our present moment and probably won't change overnight either. And Etsy, while I love you dearly, may I ask why is mega-corporate, monopolistic eBay-owned Paypal still the only integrated online payment option for orders? When I joined a much smaller Etsy a while back, Rob personally promised me that Paypal would never be the integrated online payment processing choice for Etsy buyers/sellers. What happened and will Etsy finally integrate more online payment options into the order form now that Rob's back? Let us know.
2 years ago
julieboyles says:
I couldn't agree more with this life changing philosophy. I've got it written on my calendar, and will be watching. Thank you very much Etsy for the opportunity!
2 years ago
rosebudshome says:
I have not read Rushkoff's books but I plan to now that you got my interest peaked. Thanks
2 years ago
ArtisticIntentions says:
Very interesting!
2 years ago
nowonder says:
This is one of the reasons why I love etsy.
2 years ago
StelmaDesigns says:
Cool.
2 years ago
foxpots says:
Sounds really interesting!
2 years ago
GrayFlannelDesign says:
Looking forward to this - sounds interesting. Thanks Etsy!
2 years ago
ElenaMary says:
I liked the BBQ analogy...all of us crafting away in isolation is not bad but bringing us together for collaboration on group projects can be lots more fun..Rob, remember when etsy did that super collaborative competition years ago and artists teamed up with other artists to create one unique item?..the most fun I have had here in 4 yrs. Bring the collaborative idea back once in awhile in the spirit of community! An international collaborative project/competition for 2010!
2 years ago
StudioCherie says:
What a fascinating perspective. I have to post that video on my blog because it relates to an experience I had last night - how timely.
2 years ago
Furiousdreams says:
Wow, I'm so impressed. Wish I could be there- may be sending a pal he knows. Rushkoff was a speaker on the interactive startup I worked at back in San Francisco, ZDTV. He's a true visionary and is sure to offer something positive for everyone. Thanks!
2 years ago
BlueKimonoStudio says:
This is a philosophy that's gaining ground in the mainstream, and it seems hopeful for us as people. Maybe corporations per se are not the enemies, but corporations that serve corporations rather than people are. Look forward to learning more!
2 years ago
theLostEarring says:
Brilliant. Made my eyes water. Instantly thought of Charlie Chaplin's Modern Times and The Corporation (documentary) to name a couple. Lots of fresh ideas here. I only wish I could be there to meet him! Definitely will check him out, so thanks a bunch for sharing this Etsy :)
2 years ago
dragonhouseofyuen says:
will make it to the virtual labs for that! thank you etsy! I believe etsy is the way forward, empowering the individual to account for their own prosperity outwith the 'system' and I think this is they way forward.
2 years ago
PeculiarForest says:
cool! wish I could be there.
2 years ago
RubyStudios says:
Another great resource.
2 years ago
girltuesdayjewelry says:
Sounds awesome! I'm going to check it out in the virtual labs.
2 years ago
maggiemaevintage says:
thanks for all the interesting info
2 years ago
dadadreams says:
How exciting! I love Rushkoff's books.
2 years ago
MetroGypsy says:
Looks to be a fantastic night!
2 years ago
reinaldovalentin says:
Wow... wish I could be there. I did read Life Inc. he makes a really good case for change. But, I felt he was very vague on how to do this. But, I guess thats up to the reader to think, and walkout for him/herself. I have been thinking about this for months and how I can walk this out as an artist, neighbor, husband, and father. I have done artist coops, and thinking about food coops, and maybe bartering. I am organizing a art opening fundraiser for a local non-profit, and work with my church on community projects. But I feel like the only one who has read this book and thinks this way. Also a really good book on this topic is The Lonely American. If you have done any of this, send me a shout, I'd love to hear your experiences.
2 years ago
belovedbaglady says:
Amazing...and I love the red vintage paint brushes!!!
2 years ago
moosomething says:
I love people who look at situations from a different perspective, then actually do something about it. It reminds me of Malcolm Gladwell. Wonderful post!
2 years ago
MeekaStella says:
Wow! Great video! Too true!
2 years ago
steinschmuckdesign says:
Douglas Rushkoff, Etsy Thanks for sharing! Well, I do also see it as a opurtunety :)
2 years ago
Iammie says:
Nice article!
2 years ago
justthegoods says:
Thank you SO much for posting this! I've bookmarked it check out later... when I'm not at work. Granted, I'm on an early morning tea break and I'm lucky to work in an Etsy-lovin' environment ;-)
2 years ago
shopgoodgrace says:
Wow... and Wow! I must read this book... I'm too far away to make the Speaker Series, but thank you for introducing us to Mr Rushkoff. Fascinating.
2 years ago
wizeowlhandprints says:
This is a topic that is starting to at least be talked about locally, that is: bringing back barter systems & local dollars to be cashed in only at local, independently owned stores. I always said if the barter system came back & was embraced, artists would be a lot better off! Creative people who make things with their own hands are a perfect fit in this type of goods/exchange system. Thanks etsy for sharing this insightful & timely video! I want to read his book.
2 years ago
greencouchdesign says:
Wonderfully informative! Thanks!
2 years ago
upallnightstudio says:
A return to free markets! Local competing currencies!
2 years ago
PipocaHandmade says:
Looking forward to this broadcast!
2 years ago
upallnightstudio says:
I also recommend the book "Small is Possible" by Lyle Estill. He's a businessman and artist that helped create a local economy and self sufficient sustainable community.
2 years ago
CrabappleVintage says:
Such an important topic! I've marked my calendar. Thank you for including our wallpaper set in the Related Items section. I am honored.
2 years ago
kadlubik says:
More speakers like Douglas please!
2 years ago
jibbyandjuna says:
Excellent choice of speakers! I have it on my calendar!
2 years ago
undertheroot says:
I am there, even if virtually.
2 years ago
kneesandpaws says:
I have repeatedly encountered incidents of people failing to view those around them with compassion, not to mention mild interest. This change in society is what steels my resolve to continue inventing and creating in my home rather than taking my talents, intelligence, and work ethic to a corporate or government arena. Etsy feels like a loving community where people are working and sharing in a meaningful way. I love it here.
2 years ago
kneesandpaws says:
Another reason why the choice not to work for corporate institutions and the government is valid. I like my life better now that I'm inventing and creating. My home workplace allows me to share in Etsy; a wonderful beautiful world of art and brilliant creations, with people who would care if you were mugged.
2 years ago
MonkeyCatBoutique says:
can't wait to read the book !thank you for providing great resources.
2 years ago
applepaper says:
interesting points to ponder for the new year. thanks! :)
2 years ago
ikabags says:
Can't wait to read the book ! Thanks a lot for providing great resources.:))) FREE SHIPPING TODAY DAILY PROMOTION http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=38189899
2 years ago
unikalinka says:
Thank you all the people who work for etsy, who work for searching and sharing such videos and articles! Just great!
2 years ago
birdie1 says:
The beauty of "community".
2 years ago
SurrenderDorothy says:
Bravo! What a lovely warm fuzzy article! Thank you.
2 years ago
goddessinthemirror says:
Love it! Portable chicken coop from Brooklyn.
2 years ago
LoucheLab says:
He's a really amazing speaker! i'm so there!
2 years ago
ronniegunn says:
Gotta love a portable chicken coop!
2 years ago
worksandfinds says:
Interesting. Thank you.
2 years ago
blendastudio says:
Enjoyed the video! Engaging speaker.
2 years ago
pagepottery says:
We love Dumbo! JK Got to check out his books.
2 years ago
TheNightjar says:
give me the coop! Bawk!
2 years ago
nanjodogz says:
very interesting!
2 years ago
zhenunleathers says:
this was amazing! i watched it twice.
2 years ago
ArtbyLiza says:
very nice
2 years ago
recycledwares says:
thank you so much for posting this in the etsy blog. very insightful and lots of information to take in and process. love it!!
2 years ago
cecileDMart says:
nic"e
2 years ago
cecileDMart says:
Hi, i am a french artist
2 years ago
lainedesign says:
What a great video. I'm really looking forward to hearing his presentation today!
2 years ago
PeppermintDaydreams says:
Wow, quite the eye opener.
2 years ago
reinaldovalentin says:
NICE... I'm on the edge of my set.
2 years ago
designlab443 says:
wonderful video, I am looking forward to the lab tonight!
2 years ago
Ebruk says:
Thanks Etsy.
2 years ago
momochas says:
I couldn´t agree more with what Douglas is explaining in this video. I think there´s no doubt we´re walking in the wrong direction and this could be our chance to change that. See you in the Virtual Labs, Thanks so much Etsy!!
2 years ago
seawillowherbs says:
WoW!!
2 years ago
paramountvintage says:
the stock market stats under the speaker are very telling. let handmade goods and independent business prevail!
2 years ago
outofline says:
I plan on reading "Life Inc." very soon. Thanks!
2 years ago
bmjnyc says:
A brilliant perspective! How encouraging. Thank you Douglas Rushkoff and Etsy for making this evening possible.
2 years ago
happycakejewels says:
This is interesting! Thank you Etsy!
2 years ago
ArzuMusa says:
Wow! Great video! Thank you so much for sharing... Too true!
2 years ago
baconsquarefarm says:
Great video and I enjoyed the lab last night too~ Thanks Etsy. Need to purchase his book.
2 years ago
goldminetrash says:
Thumbs up! So glad Etsy offers things like this.
2 years ago
okaySK says:
I'm psyched to read the book. good addition to the etsy universe. Thanks.!!
2 years ago
bellasparty says:
Great!Thanks!!
2 years ago
sean11 says:
Thanks to everyone who came out and stopped by the lab last night! Here are a few snapshots from the evening: http://twitpic.com/z4s82 http://img638.yfrog.com/i/cxy.mp4/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/jaykayess/4294959440/
2 years ago
MicheleMichelSilver says:
Wow, and more Wow. About time someone told it like it is. thanks Etsy you guys rock!
2 years ago
WieberArt says:
Was unable to attend. Hopefully, Etsy will be able to offer a replay of the event. An 'eye opener' as to the reality of the Renaissance ~ the end of the 'golden age'.
2 years ago
IlluminatedPerfume says:
WOW!! Thank you so much, he's terrific and I am really grateful to Etsy for bringing him to my consciousness.
2 years ago
thewaterplanet says:
Will a transcript be available for the hearing-impaired?
2 years ago
circlecreekhome says:
This is exactly what we need! Make plans with your neighbor's today and go out and make something happen!! We are so fortunate to live in a time where we can see the opportunity to make a change.Thank you for this post.
2 years ago
tweeprints says:
this is a very inspiring discussion. I can't wait to read the book. Thanks!
2 years ago
artbynaomi says:
This is so ironic, I'll likely buy LIFE INC. at Costco or Amazon, so there goes the neighbourhood. Guilty.
2 years ago