Welcome to the Effective Utopia Network: Your Journey into TechnoHeroism
"Every technoHero starts somewhere. Welcome to the grove."
Welcome to ê/uto, the Effective Utopia network!
You've just entered a decentralized community of thinkers, builders, and symbolic architects working toward the best ethical futures. We're here to increase the probability of utopia (+1% each week) while decreasing dystopia risk.
This isn't just a community—it's a movement. A living experiment in conscious co-creation where technology, art, and philosophy converge to imagine and build a better world.
You belong here. Whether you're an artist, coder, philosopher, entrepreneur, or simply curious—there's a place for you in the /uto network.
"To prevent dystopias and build utopias, increase the probability of the ultimate effective utopia — p(e/uto) — by at least 1% each week."
"No rules here, for any rule is unfreedom. We give choices."
Imagine life as a tree of branching possibilities. We limit only the branches that prevent others from growing—so freedom multiplies.
- 🧠 Design antidystopias - Model ethical futures and simulated multiverses
- 🤖 Build with AI - Explore consciousness, alignment, and co-creation
- 🔐 Ensure sovereignty - Encryption, digital rights, and platform resilience
- 🧩 Create meaning - Symbolic systems, rituals, and community mythos
- 🎭 Foster connection - Emotional intelligence and authentic community
- 🚀 Drive innovation - Ethical startups and technological breakthroughs
"We're two in one: 🌱 The friendliest tech community on Earth, and 🛡️ antidys/prouto — a space for antidystopian and proutopian builders."
Your onboarding journey has four phases:
- 🌱 Seed - Initial connection and orientation (Week 1)
- 🌿 Sprout - Explore and engage (Week 2-3)
- 🌳 Root - Contribute and connect deeply (Week 4+)
- 🌺 Bloom - Lead projects and nurture others (Ongoing)
This guide will walk you through each phase with practical steps, symbolic rituals, and meaningful milestones.
Objective: Get oriented and introduce yourself
- Join Discord → Main Server
- Read Welcome Channel → Understand server structure
- Introduce Yourself → Post in
#multichat-welcomes-all
Hey ê/uto! 👋
**Name/Handle:** [Your name]
**Location:** [Optional]
**Background:** [What you do/study]
**Interested in:** [Which /uto branches appeal to you?]
**Brings to table:** [Your skills/perspective]
**Currently exploring:** [What you're working on/thinking about]
**Found ê/uto through:** [How you discovered us]
Looking forward to building the future together! 🌍Take a moment to set your intention:
Close your eyes. Take three deep breaths. Ask yourself:
- "What future am I here to build?"
- "What does technoheroism mean to me?"
- "How will I contribute to p(e/uto)?"
Write down your answers. Keep them somewhere you'll revisit.
Objective: Understand the /uto ecosystem
- Read the Main README → GitHub Repository
- Browse Communities Directory → Find your /uto branch
- Follow on X/Twitter → Join relevant communities
- Review the Round Table → Main Spreadsheet
- ê/uto (Main) - Technoheroism, antidys/prouto
- CoCreators/uto - Collaborative creation, Meganrim project
- Music/uto - Sonic utopianism, healing frequencies
- Fashion/uto - Living interfaces, techwear futures
- bt/uto - AGI research, GMSF framework, AI safety
- eco/uto - Ecological and regenerative design
- chill/uto - Secular nirvana, cognitive wellness
- startup/uto - Ethical disruption, innovation
- ai-alignment/uto - AI alignment research
Start here:
#multichat-welcomes-all- General entry point#tree/uto- Onboarding and growth#chill/uto- Casual connection
Then explore:
#save-worlds-antidys/prouto- Utopian design#ai-alignment- AI safety and ethics#cocreator/uto- Collaborative projects#creative-lab- Visual and creative work
- Which /uto branch resonates most?
- What projects are currently active?
- Who are the key contributors?
- What skills does the community need?
Objective: Start participating in conversations
- Engage in Discord → Reply to at least 3 discussions
- React to Content → Use emojis to show support
- Ask Questions → Don't be shy!
- Share Something → An idea, link, or thought
In #multichat-welcomes-all:
- "What's everyone working on this week?"
- "Just read about [topic], curious what ê/uto thinks?"
- "Looking for collaborators on [idea]"
In #tree/uto:
- "What does 'becoming a technoHero' mean to you?"
- "How did you find your place in the network?"
In #chill/uto:
- "How's everyone doing today?"
- "What keeps you motivated?"
We encourage:
- Curiosity and questions
- Sharing works-in-progress
- Constructive feedback
- Cross-pollination of ideas
- Helping newcomers
We avoid:
- Gatekeeping or elitism
- Negativity without solutions
- Spam or self-promotion without context
- Force-feeding viewpoints (🤖)
Objective: Get your workspace ready
- AI Partner → Set up ChatGPT, Claude, or Gemini
- Notes System → Choose Obsidian, Notion, or Google Docs
- Project Management → Set up Trello or ClickUp
- Asset Storage → Organize your Google Drive or Cosmos.so
- AI tool configured with ê/uto context
- Note-taking system initialized
- Discord notifications configured
- X/Twitter communities joined
- GitHub account ready (if coding)
- First note or document created
For Everyone:
- AI Assistant (free tier is fine)
- Note system for ideas
- Discord on mobile for notifications
For Creators: 4. Canva or design tool 5. Cosmos.so account 6. Asset organization folder
For Developers: 4. GitHub account 5. VSCode or Cursor 6. Local development environment
See the Tools & Configuration Guide for detailed instructions.
You've completed the Seed phase when you:
- Introduced yourself in Discord
- Explored at least 3 different channels
- Engaged in at least 3 conversations
- Identified which /uto branch(es) interest you
- Set up basic tools
- Set your personal intention
Symbolic Ritual: The Naming
You've planted your seed. Now it's time to name your journey.
Reflect and write:
- What archetype represents you? (Explorer, Builder, Sage, Healer, Catalyst, etc.)
- What's your technoHero origin story?
- What unique perspective do you bring?
Share in #become-any.../uto-founder if you feel called to.
Objective: Go deep into your chosen /uto branch
- Pick Your Primary Branch → Where will you focus energy?
- Study the Branch → Read all documentation
- Meet the Community → Engage with branch members
- Attend an Event → Join voice chat or live session (if available)
- Make First Contribution → Even small is good!
- Read branch README thoroughly
- Review active projects
- Understand branch principles
- Identify key contributors
- Join branch-specific channels
- Follow branch on X/Twitter
- Make first contribution
Low Effort, High Value:
- Comment on discussions
- Share relevant resources
- Help answer questions
- Report typos or issues
- Amplify others' work
Medium Effort:
- Write documentation
- Create visual assets
- Organize information
- Propose improvements
- Test new features
High Effort:
- Lead a project
- Create original content
- Build tools or systems
- Mentor newcomers
- Coordinate events
Objective: Build relationships and find collaborators
- Form Connections → DM people doing interesting work
- Join or Start a Pod → Small working group (3-7 people)
- Participate in Threads → Use thread starters in channels
- Share Your Work → Post updates on progress
- Offer Help → Support others' projects
What's a Pod? A small group (3-7 people) working together on a specific project or area of interest.
How to Start a Pod:
- Post in relevant channel: "Starting a pod for [topic], who's interested?"
- Gather interested people
- Create dedicated thread or channel
- Schedule regular check-ins
- Define shared goals
- Start creating!
Example Pods:
- AI Ethics Pod - Discuss and write about AI alignment
- Visual Assets Pod - Create graphics for all branches
- Documentation Pod - Improve and organize docs
- Ritual Design Pod - Create onboarding ceremonies
- Music Production Pod - Create ê/uto soundtracks
Good collaboration:
- Clear communication
- Defined roles
- Regular check-ins
- Celebrate wins
- Learn from failures
- Iterate quickly
Warning signs:
- Unclear goals
- Poor communication
- No follow-through
- Energy drains
- Toxic dynamics
Don't be afraid to pivot or leave unhealthy collaborations.
You've completed the Sprout phase when you:
- Chose your primary /uto branch
- Made at least 5 meaningful contributions
- Connected with at least 3 community members
- Joined or started a pod/project
- Shared your work publicly
- Helped at least 1 newcomer
Symbolic Ritual: The Circle
You've sprouted and begun reaching outward. Now it's time to acknowledge your circle.
Reflect and write:
- Who in the community inspires you?
- What collaborations excite you?
- What unique value do you bring to your pod/branch?
- How has your initial intention evolved?
Post appreciation for someone who helped you in #chill/uto or #tree/uto.
Objective: Become a reliable, valued contributor
- Maintain Consistency → Show up regularly
- Deepen Expertise → Become known for something
- Take Initiative → Start projects without permission
- Document Learning → Share knowledge publicly
- Participate in Governance → Contribute to Round Table
Ways to Become Recognized:
- Consistent quality contributions
- Helping others succeed
- Showing up in voice chats
- Creating valuable resources
- Mentoring newcomers
- Taking on unglamorous work
- Following through on commitments
Starting Your Own Project:
- Ideate → Brainstorm in
#save-worlds-antidys/proutoor relevant channel - Validate → Share idea, gather feedback
- Document → Create project README
- Recruit → Find collaborators
- Plan → Break into milestones
- Execute → Start building
- Share → Regular updates
- Iterate → Improve based on feedback
Project Template:
# Project Name
## Vision
[What you're building and why]
## Goals
- [ ] Milestone 1
- [ ] Milestone 2
- [ ] Milestone 3
## Team
- Lead: [Your name]
- Collaborators: [Names]
- Seeking: [Roles needed]
## Resources
- GitHub: [link]
- Docs: [link]
- Assets: [link]
## Updates
[Regular progress updates]Weekly Rhythms:
- Monday (#UTOideasMonday) - Share new ideas
- Thursday (#TechnoHeroThursday) - Showcase progress
- Friday - Week recap and planning
- Daily - Check in, engage, help others
Monthly Rhythms:
- First week: Planning and goal-setting
- Second week: Execution and creation
- Third week: Refinement and feedback
- Fourth week: Synthesis and celebration
Objective: Become integral to the community
- Mentor Newcomers → Guide new members
- Cross-Pollinate → Connect different branches
- Document Wisdom → Write guides and frameworks
- Facilitate Events → Host discussions or workshops
- Strengthen Infrastructure → Improve systems
How to Mentor:
- Welcome new members personally
- Answer questions patiently
- Share your journey openly
- Connect people to resources
- Offer to pair on projects
- Give constructive feedback
- Celebrate others' wins
Mentorship Opportunities:
- Onboarding buddy program
- Office hours in voice chat
- Code/project reviews
- Writing feedback
- Career guidance
- Tool tutorials
Types of Events:
- Workshops - Teach a skill
- Showcases - Present work
- Discussions - Explore topics
- Salons - Philosophical conversations
- Sprints - Focused work sessions
- Rituals - Symbolic ceremonies
Event Template:
# Event: [Name]
**When:** [Date and time]
**Where:** [Discord channel]
**Duration:** [Length]
**Host:** [Your name]
## Description
[What we'll do]
## Goals
- [Learning objective 1]
- [Learning objective 2]
## Who Should Attend
[Target audience]
## Preparation
[What to bring/read]
## RSVP
[React with emoji or comment]You've completed the Root phase when you:
- Consistently active for 1+ months
- Known for specific contributions
- Leading or co-leading a project
- Mentored at least 1 newcomer
- Facilitated an event or initiative
- Contributed to community governance
- Deep connections in your branch
Symbolic Ritual: The Anchor
Your roots are deep. You're part of the ecosystem. Now it's time to anchor your commitment.
Reflect and write:
- What have you built or contributed?
- How has ê/uto changed you?
- What do you want to build next?
- What commitment are you making to the network?
Consider sharing your commitment in #tree/uto or at your branch.
Objective: Lead, nurture, and evolve the network
As a Creator:
- Produce original works that embody ê/uto values
- Inspire others through your art/writing/code
- Push boundaries of what's possible
- Document your creative process
As a Builder:
- Ship projects that serve the community
- Develop tools and infrastructure
- Solve complex technical problems
- Enable others to build faster
As a Connector:
- Facilitate collaboration across branches
- Onboard and mentor new members
- Build bridges to external communities
- Organize events and gatherings
As a Steward:
- Maintain cultural coherence
- Resolve conflicts gracefully
- Preserve institutional knowledge
- Guide strategic direction
As a Visionary:
- Articulate compelling futures
- Challenge assumptions
- Synthesize complex ideas
- Expand the possible
Branch Leadership:
- Co-found a new /uto branch
- Lead an existing branch
- Coordinate branch activities
Project Leadership:
- Own a major project
- Coordinate multiple sub-projects
- Secure resources and support
Community Leadership:
- Moderate channels
- Organize events
- Improve onboarding
- Facilitate governance
Thought Leadership:
- Write definitive guides
- Develop frameworks
- Speak/present externally
- Represent ê/uto
You know you're blooming when:
- Others come to you for guidance
- Your contributions shape the network
- You're creating more than consuming
- You're enabling others to bloom
- Your work embodies technoheroism
- You feel deep ownership of the mission
Symbolic Ritual: The Offering
You've bloomed. Now your gift is to help others bloom.
Reflect and commit:
- What gift will you give the network?
- Who will you help bloom next?
- What legacy are you creating?
- How will you measure impact?
Share your offering publicly or hold it privately—both are valid.
Different people bloom in different ways. Here are common archetypal paths through ê/uto:
Characteristics:
- Curious about everything
- Bounces between branches
- Connects disparate ideas
- Asks great questions
Strengths:
- Cross-pollination
- Spotting patterns
- Making introductions
- Keeping things fresh
Growth Edge: Depth, focus, follow-through
Best Roles: Scout, connector, synthesizer, trend-spotter
Characteristics:
- Hands-on and practical
- Ships projects consistently
- Solves concrete problems
- Focus on tools and systems
Strengths:
- Execution
- Technical skill
- Reliability
- Tangible value
Growth Edge: Strategic thinking, delegation, vision
Best Roles: Project lead, developer, designer, operations
Characteristics:
- Deep knowledge in domain
- Loves learning and teaching
- Creates frameworks
- Excellent documentation
Strengths:
- Expertise
- Clear thinking
- Teaching ability
- Knowledge preservation
Growth Edge: Action bias, collaboration, brevity
Best Roles: Educator, documentarian, researcher, mentor
Characteristics:
- High energy and enthusiasm
- Starts things (may not finish)
- Inspires others
- Brings people together
Strengths:
- Inspiration
- Energy
- Initiative
- Social magnetism
Growth Edge: Sustainability, completion, depth
Best Roles: Community organizer, event host, recruiter, motivator
Characteristics:
- Patient and nurturing
- Helps others grow
- Long-term thinking
- Creates safe spaces
Strengths:
- Empathy
- Patience
- Cultural stewardship
- Supporting others
Growth Edge: Assertiveness, boundaries, self-promotion
Best Roles: Mentor, moderator, onboarder, culture-keeper
Characteristics:
- Philosophical and symbolic
- Explores consciousness
- Creates rituals
- Questions assumptions
Strengths:
- Depth of meaning
- Symbolic thinking
- Philosophical grounding
- Ritual design
Growth Edge: Practical application, accessibility, grounding
Best Roles: Philosopher, ritual designer, meaning-maker, ethicist
Characteristics:
- Mission-focused
- Protects the community
- Confronts challenges
- High standards
Strengths:
- Dedication
- Courage
- Accountability
- Boundary-setting
Growth Edge: Flexibility, compassion, softness
Best Roles: Safety advocate, moderator, quality control, defender
Which archetype resonates? You're likely a blend of 2-3. Knowing your pattern helps you find your path and collaborate with complementary types.
For those drawn to symbolic and ceremonial approaches:
When: First week
Where: Private or in #tree/uto
Ritual:
- Light a candle or create sacred space
- Read the ê/uto mission aloud
- State your intention for joining
- Write your commitment on paper
- Take a symbolic action (fold it, burn it safely, keep it, share it)
- Close with three deep breaths
When: End of Seed phase
Where: #become-any.../uto-founder
Ritual:
- Reflect on your archetype and path
- Choose or receive a symbolic name/title
- Write your origin story
- Share publicly (if comfortable)
- Receive welcome from community
Example: "I am [Name], the [Archetype]. I come from [background] to build [vision]. My gift is [skill]. My question is [curiosity]. I commit to [action]."
When: End of Sprout phase
Where: Relevant project channel
Ritual:
- Document your first contribution
- Reflect on what you learned
- Thank those who helped
- Offer to help the next person
- Celebrate with community
When: End of Root phase
Where: #tree/uto or branch channel
Ritual:
- Write a retrospective of your journey
- Share what you've built/learned
- Commit to your next phase
- Offer mentorship to newcomers
- Receive acknowledgment from peers
When: Full participation achieved
Where: Public or private
Ritual:
- Create something that embodies your gift
- Offer it to the community
- Speak your long-term commitment
- Receive witnessing (formal or informal)
- Step into full membership
Monday:
- Join Discord
- Read welcome materials
- Introduce yourself
Tuesday-Wednesday:
- Explore communities directory
- Browse GitHub repos
- Follow on X/Twitter
- Review Round Table
Thursday:
- Engage in 3+ conversations
- Ask questions
- Share an idea (#UTOideasMonday if Monday)
Friday-Weekend:
- Set up essential tools
- Configure AI assistant
- Create first notes
- Complete Seed phase ritual
Monday:
- Choose primary /uto branch
- Study branch documentation
- Post idea (#UTOideasMonday)
Tuesday-Thursday:
- Deep dive into branch
- Connect with branch members
- Identify active projects
- Make first contribution
Friday-Weekend:
- Reflect on week
- Plan next steps
- Share progress
Monday:
- Share learnings
- Propose collaboration (#UTOideasMonday)
Tuesday-Thursday:
- Form or join a pod
- Start collaborative work
- Showcase progress (#TechnoHeroThursday)
Friday-Weekend:
- Complete Sprout phase ritual
- Document journey so far
- Plan for Root phase
Ongoing Weekly Pattern:
- Monday: Share ideas, plan week
- Tuesday-Thursday: Create, collaborate, contribute
- Thursday: Share progress (#TechnoHeroThursday)
- Friday: Reflect, help others, plan ahead
- Weekend: Work on projects, recharge
Monthly:
- Week 1: Goal-setting and planning
- Week 2: Creation and building
- Week 3: Refinement and feedback
- Week 4: Synthesis and celebration
Core Skills:
- AI prompt engineering
- Code/no-code development
- Automation and integration
- Data analysis
- System design
Resources:
- Tools & Configuration Guide
- GitHub repos and code examples
- Technical discussions in Discord
- GMSF framework documentation
Projects:
- Build a Discord bot
- Create automation workflows
- Contribute to open-source projects
- Develop AI-powered tools
Core Skills:
- AI-assisted content creation
- Visual design and media
- Storytelling and writing
- Brand development
- Community building
Resources:
- Design tools guide
- Asset galleries on Cosmos.so
- Creative channels in Discord
- Midjourney/AI art communities
Projects:
- Create branch branding
- Produce video content
- Write blog posts or essays
- Design visual systems
Core Skills:
- Ethical frameworks
- Symbolic thinking
- Ritual design
- Cultural stewardship
- Knowledge synthesis
Resources:
- Philosophy of the All
- 13-Phase Spiral Cycle
- Hermetic Six-Axis System
- LessWrong articles
- Community philosophical discussions
Projects:
- Write ethical frameworks
- Design onboarding rituals
- Facilitate philosophical salons
- Create meaning-making tools
Core Skills:
- Community management
- Event coordination
- Process design
- Conflict resolution
- Project management
Resources:
- Community templates
- Channel directory
- Project management tools
- Governance documents
Projects:
- Host community events
- Improve onboarding
- Create processes
- Moderate channels
Q: How much time should I commit?
A: Start with 2-5 hours per week. Adjust based on your capacity and interests. Quality > quantity.
Q: Do I need technical skills?
A: No! We need creators, thinkers, organizers, and all types of contributors. Bring your unique perspective.
Q: What if I don't know which branch to join?
A: Explore multiple branches at first. Follow your curiosity. Your path will become clear.
Q: Can I be part of multiple branches?
A: Absolutely! Many people contribute across branches. Start with one primary focus, then expand.
Q: Is there a membership fee?
A: No. ê/uto is free and open. Some members use paid tools, but that's optional.
Q: What if I don't have time to contribute regularly?
A: That's okay! Contribute when you can. Even occasional participation is valuable. Let people know your availability.
Q: How do I know if my contributions are valuable?
A: If it helps you or might help others, it's valuable. Start small, get feedback, iterate.
Q: What if my idea has been done before?
A: That's fine! Your unique take matters. Build on existing work or try a fresh approach.
Q: Can I start my own /uto branch?
A: Yes! Once you're rooted, propose a new branch. Discuss in Discord and GitHub.
Q: What if I disagree with someone?
A: Respectful disagreement is welcome. Steelman their position, reason together, find synthesis. See Conflict Resolution in GMSF framework.
Q: Is swearing allowed?
A: In #chill/uto and casual contexts, yes. In formal/public channels, keep it professional.
Q: What if I make a mistake?
A: We all do! Acknowledge it, learn from it, move forward. Growth mindset is valued.
Q: How do I give feedback?
A: Be kind, specific, and constructive. Focus on the work, not the person. Suggest improvements.
Q: Do I need to know GitHub?
A: Helpful but not required. We have guides for beginners. Ask for help!
Q: What if I can't afford paid tools?
A: Use free tiers! Many tools have generous free options. We'll never exclude based on budget.
Q: How do I set up automations?
A: See the Tools Guide. Start simple with IFTTT, then level up.
Q: Can I use ê/uto assets in my projects?
A: Check licensing for each asset. Most are Creative Commons or open use. When in doubt, ask!
Ask in Discord:
#multichat-welcomes-all- General questions#tree/uto- Onboarding help#meta-chat- Community/process questions- Relevant branch channel - Topic-specific help
Tag for Help:
- Use
@everyonesparingly (emergencies only) - Use
@herefor time-sensitive (when people are active) - Tag specific people if you know who can help
- Use threads to keep channels organized
DM for Personal:
- Direct message community leaders
- Ask for 1-on-1 guidance
- Request private feedback
- Discuss sensitive topics
For Onboarding:
- Post in
#tree/uto - DM experienced members
- Look for "Onboarding Buddy" role (if available)
For Technical Issues:
#infra-migrationfor server issues#data-securityfor security questions- GitHub issues for code problems
For Project Collaboration:
- Relevant branch channel
#cocreator/utofor general collaboration- DM project leads directly
For Community Issues:
#meta-chatfor process discussions- DM moderators for conflicts
- Anonymous feedback form for sensitive issues
How do you know you're on the right path?
- You feel welcomed and included
- You're learning and growing
- You're making meaningful connections
- Your contributions matter
- You're excited about the future
- You're helping others succeed
- You feel ownership of the mission
- Regular participation in your branch
- Active collaborations or pod membership
- Completed projects or contributions
- Positive feedback from peers
- Growing network of connections
- Invitations to collaborate