Awakening A Spirit of Compassionate Rebellion

A call for compassionate dissent and a return to liberty

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AWAKENING A SPIRIT OF COMPASSIONATE REBELLION

A call for compassionate dissent and a return to liberty

Jason Littlefield

My lifelong fascination with humanity began in high school and led me to study History, Psychology, and Sociology. I ultimately majored in History and Political Science, focusing on "culture and society," as my interest lay more in "We The People" than wars or politicians. My political lens was shaped by the "sovereign nation vs. globalism" debate rather than partisan politics. As you read my observations and concerns for the future, it's important to understand they come from a deep appreciation for Americans pursuing their well-being and continuing the American experiment.

These interests have been central to my career for over twenty years, notably as an American History teacher and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Specialist. The latter reignited my interest in human nature and well-being. From 2014 to 2021, viewing the world through the SEL lens, I identified issues impacting well-being and eroding Liberty, leading me to develop potential solutions. While my views have faced criticism, framing the conversation around "restoring Liberty through well-being" may be more effective, and I'm exploring this new approach.

Over the past seven years, I've observed counterproductive practices across various fields, where well-intentioned efforts have led to unintended negative consequences. In 2017, I realized my local workgroup was employing detrimental methods in our mission to increase social-emotional well-being. I was canceled from the SEL field for voicing these concerns.

In the years since, I've been marginalized for discussing human well-being in this context. I recognize that tribalism and fear are prevalent at this time. However, I remain optimistic that a spirit of compassionate dissent against those who divide us will eventually emerge.

Therefore, I've shifted my focus to fostering this dissent rather than trying to convince practitioners of their harmful practices or warn the public about the manipulation of our social-emotional and psychological capacities. While I haven't entirely given up on influencing the present, my primary goal is to inspire a shared commitment to Liberty. Once we unite in this spirit, the barriers that divide us will crumble, paving the way for Liberty, dignity, and compassion.

To this end, I've written several long-form essays raising awareness about the erosion of classical liberal values through DEI, SEL, and Antiracism initiatives—including one for SEL practitioners and critics—and proposing Empowered Humanity Theory (EHT) as an alternative. I've also outlined a framework for individuals, organizations, and institutions to adopt an EHT lens.

Humanity faces a choice: perpetuating indignities or pursuing dignity; eroding Liberty or honoring it. I choose dignity and Liberty, guided by Empowered Humanity Theory. As I foresaw the chaos we faced over a decade ago, I envision a groundswell of compassionate dissent dismantling the walls between us. I hope it begins soon, and I remain committed to working towards this goal.

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Jason Littlefield is an educator who is passionate about personal wellbeing and establishing a society of individuals at peace within themselves and others. He established EmpowerED Pathways in 2017 and co-designed Empowered Humanity Theory, a framework for life, leadership, and learning. He served as a public educator for twenty-one years in multiple capacities. From 2014 to 2021 he was a Social and Emotional Learning Specialist for the Austin Independent School District. Jason has also served students and families from around the world, including Taiwan, China, and Benin. Through his work with EmpowerED Pathways, Free Black Thought, and The Institute for Liberal Values, he advocates for decreasing human division and increasing personal wellbeing by bringing awareness to the impact and intent of the emerging ideology dominating our institutions and permeating the Zeitgeist.