Matt Chocqueel-Mangan
Matt Chocqueel-Mangan is a London-based digital producer. He graduated from Plymouth Business School and gained a Master’s degree in web publishing from City University, London. His interest in the web and usability has crossed over to social change projects, starting with Vote for Policies for the 2010 UK general election and more recently What One Change, which is all about discussing root causes of social issues.
?!X: What’s the Future You Choose?
MC-M: The Future I choose is one where we are able to engage with the bigger questions that impact our ability to lead more fulfilled lives – where we tackle root causes of social change. In my opinion, for this to happen means acquiring greater mental/emotional health as a population, enabling us to cope with the uncertainty and fear that the bigger questions present.
?!X: What’s a ‘think’ to create this future?
MC-M: The need for understanding root causes of social problems is best summed up by this quote. “…And even when the various services are successful in stopping someone re-offending, in curing a cancer, getting someone off drugs or dealing with educational failure, we know that our societies are endlessly recreating these problems in each new generation.” The Spirit Level: Why More Equal Societies Almost Always Do Better
To address this we need to question some things that we take for granted about how we live and work as societies. This can mean asking some uncomfortable questions, which can trigger reactions within us that aren’t always helpful in achieving long term solutions. Trying to notice when our own emotional needs get in the way of long term solution is something we can all benefit from.
?!X: What’s an ‘act’ to create the future you choose?
MC-M: We can do lots! Firstly, if you encounter a challenge try to look for a root cause by asking the question ‘why does that happen’ over and over again. When you get to a dead end, that’s probably the thing that needs to change.
Also, trying to be more aware of what we’re thinking / feeling while we’re actually feeling it. We’re good at being aware of our physical movement, like waving our arms (it’s called proprioception) but it’s not so easy with attitudes or emotions. There’s not even a word for it!
?!X: What’s a ‘vote’ to create the future you choose?
MC-M: Actually, I think ThinkActVote is site is a great start for bringing great ideas together.
Also, I’d recommend joining the Action for Happiness campaign – simple but powerful stuff.
In the future I hope What One Change will also contribute by helping us identify root cause of social change.
?!X: Future Soundtrack – What song would you take with you into the future?
MC-M: Crowded House – All I Ask
?!X: What are your five all time favourite weblinks?
MC-M:
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