Rational Games Inc

THE POWER OF MAJLIS: A New Approach to Peacebuilding? By Mark Young President, Rational Games, Inc. February 2024 The mammoth COP 28 conference just finished in Dubai was memorable as it was the first such gathering to unanimously affirm (however conditionally) a worldwide movement away from the burning of fossil fuels. More specifically, some have claimed that this last-minute breakthrough was enabled by another first-time event: the organization of an Islamic Majlis. Majlis, an institution even older than Islam itself, is an Arabic word for “sitting place”, “salon” or also “council”. It is a unique form of problem-solving gathering that has never been attempted before in this setting, and it appears to have made a difference. Majlis is remarkable for: First, its unique setting. Since Majlis is both a place and an event, great care is taken to create a conducive atmosphere for a fruitful discussion. Beautiful decorations such as Nagash paintings, bright colors, geometric designs and non-hierarchal seating arrangements (concentric rings) invite participants to slow down, relax and speak simply from the heart. Second, deep mutual respect between the participants and what they have to impart to the discussion. From the start, a spirit of collaboration is established, with ground rules set, no particular person in charge and all bringing proven credentials and well-known capable faces. This is indeed a community gathering to solve problems, not a theater for debate or even negotiation. Finally, the appeal to a higher power fundamentally reframes the debate. It is remarkable that Islam, not generally known for its ecumenism, can establish the profound spirituality that is the hallmark of this particular gathering. All faiths are welcome, and all that is formally required is that speakers be just, and have knowledge and wisdom. Interventions are forms of oral heritage, so stories and poems. The focus is on what binds us and can lead us to a better solution. An idea whose time has come? Full text at www.rationalgames.com. Comments welcome. #problemsolving #interfaith #dialogueoral #heritagemutual #respectspiritualityindialogue #sustainablesolutions #Islamic #COP28fossilfuels #Dubaiglobalenvironmentalpolicy

Unlocking the Secrets of Music's Transformative Power by Janne Krippl Associate Consultant, Rational Games, Inc. Welcome to the first podcast episodeof the Rational Games PowerhouseSeries! After several successful sessions on Zoom,we decided to make the Powerhouse Series even more accessible to you through an audio format. With the 8th episode of the Powerhouse Series, we delve into the transformative power of music and howit can serve as a tool for peacebuilding, connection, and unity. In this episode, we had the privilege of exploring the organisation's work, Musicians Without Borders. This remarkable organisation harnesses the universal language of music to create safespaces, prevent violence, and promote unity in conflict zones around the world. Through our conversation, we learned about the organization's various global projects, each unique and impactful, using music to foster empathy, connection, and joy. These projects transcend cultural and societal differences, leveraging the power of cultural diversity to create a harmonious blend of peace and unity. Whether you're a music lover, peace advocate, or someone interested in the intersection of arts and social development, this episode offers a wealth of insights. The stories and experiences shared highlight the transformative power of music and remind us of our sharedhumanity and our capacity to create positive change in the world. On www.rationalgames.com, please find: - the recording of the podcast - For non-native speakers and leisure listeners, a slowed-down version of the podcast: We encourage you to listen, share, and let us know your thoughts about this episode. Sharing our podcast is more than just spreading the word; it's about resonating with the harmonies of peace, unity, and understanding. Your share could bring this message to someone who needs to hear it today. Full text and links at www.rationalgames.com. Comments welcome! #Music  #PeaceBuilding #Connection #CulturalDiversity #MusiciansWithoutBorders#ConflictZones #SocialChange #ArtsAndDevelopment #PowerOfMusic #RGI