‘Stamfordtown’ – An introduction

 “There is nothing more difficult to take in hand, more perilous to conduct, or more uncertain in its success than to take the lead in the introduction of a new order of things. Because the innovator has for enemies all those who have done well under the old conditions, and lukewarm defenders in those who may do well under the new."  Machiavelli, “The Prince”

 ‘Stamfordtown’ is a series of very short essays (500-800 words) written by members of the Stamford Forum (and hopefully in time, others). It was conceived earlier in 2009 as an attempt to address the key and unspoken issues of the day. It tackles some of the perceived deficits in modern politics and society. It represents, so far, a cry from the heart.

 ‘Stamfordtown’ is an ongoing dialogue. We range across a wide variety of linked topics including; “Who needs a moral compass when there is serious money to be made?” (Essay 1); the questions that need to be answered (Essay 2); a new framework for thinking about society (Diagram 2); the impact of recession on public services  (Essay 3); a challenge to democracy (Essay 4);  ‘7 Steps to moral coherence’ (Essay 5); ‘The view from the girls’, (Essay 6); The ‘crisis’ and a ‘post Fordist state’ (Essay 7)  and, ‘From paralysis to possibility: some hard questions for health and social care leaders’ (Essay 8). ‘Our thinking so far……’ (Essay 9).

 There will  be more.

 Each of the essays stands alone. However they can also be read in conjunction with each other. They are designed to challenge, perhaps they might even offend, but hopefully they will interest and stimulate. Join us in the debate. Essay 9 is unfinished. It needs your contributions. Comment to any one of us or send us your own essay to add to the emerging story.

 Why ‘Stamfordtown’? No good reason really. Perhaps its about creating a viable alternative – a place where we all want to be.