Our terms of participation

The Collective only works because people are willing to explore ideas together — to share half-formed thoughts, disagree well, and change their minds along the way. A few shared commitments keep that space open, honest, and generous. By taking part — at our events or in our conversations online — you're agreeing to these.

We speak freely, and we protect each other's freedom to do so

At our in-person events and within the Substack channel and chat, we operate under the Chatham House Rule. You're free to use and build on whatever is said, but please don't attribute any idea, opinion, or comment to a named person or organisation — whether inside the room or thread, or beyond it. This lets people speak openly without worrying about where a passing thought might end up.

We treat each other with respect and courtesy

Honest, frank debate depends on it. You're welcome to challenge an idea as hard as you like — we only ask that you do so with care for the person holding it.

Every perspective is welcome

We value open and honest debate, and we begin from the belief that everyone has something worth contributing. You don't need credentials, expertise, or a settled view to take part. Thinking aloud, asking questions, and changing your mind are all part of the point.

What we do with the conversation

The Collective gathers and makes sense of what emerges — the themes, tensions, and questions running through our events, the Substack chat, and responses to our writing. We share this thinking openly, but never attributed: no idea or opinion is traced back to an individual or organisation.

When we speak as "the Collective"

Where a broad consensus emerges, we may express it as a Collective view — always while acknowledging the range of perspectives held within it. A Collective view is a considered reading of where the weight of thinking sits. It isn't the last word, and it doesn't flatten genuine disagreement into false agreement.

Keeping the space healthy

Very occasionally, someone may take part in a way that undermines these commitments, or the safety of the space for others. Where that happens, one of the Collective's founders will be in touch, and may ask them to step back from participation. We would always rather have a conversation first.

If you ever have a concern about how a conversation is being held, you can reach us at hello@socialarchitecturecollective.org.

How we handle any personal information you share is set out in our Privacy Policy.