Fractal Initiative Embraces 'Paganism for Subcultures' in Quest for Integrated Community Life

Tyler Alterman, a prominent figure in the postrationalist movement and co-founder of Fractal, recently articulated a unique vision for community building, stating in a tweet that "One way of talking about Fractal is that it’s paganism but for subcultures." This provocative statement encapsulates Fractal's innovative approach to fostering tightly-knit, multi-faceted communities, moving beyond traditional structures to integrate work, social life, and personal growth.

Fractal, described as a "neighborhood campus," aims to create environments where individuals can live, learn, and collaborate in close proximity. This initiative is a direct outgrowth of Alterman's personal journey, which saw him transition from the hyper-utilitarian focus of Effective Altruism, where he experienced burnout, to a philosophy that embraces a more holistic and human-centered approach to well-being and collective flourishing. His prior work in cognitive science research and social movements informs this new direction.

The "paganism for subcultures" metaphor highlights Fractal's openness to diverse practices and meaning-making frameworks often dismissed by purely rationalist thought. It suggests an embrace of ritual, spirituality, and embodied experience—elements that Alterman and the broader postrationalist community believe are crucial for a well-lived life, even if they don't conform to conventional truth claims. This contrasts with the earlier rationalist emphasis on quantifiable outcomes and a sometimes-stark detachment from emotional or spiritual needs.

Fractal's model centers on creating "scenius"—environments conducive to collective genius and innovation through close proximity and lively collaboration, drawing inspiration from historical examples like Renaissance Florence. The initiative offers a Campus Accelerator Program, a six-week bootcamp guiding groups to establish their own neighborhood campuses with weekly events, co-living arrangements, and community-run universities. This structure is designed to support ambitious projects while ensuring a sustainable, integrated lifestyle.

Alterman's philosophy, often termed "fractal altruism," seeks to balance world-scale impact with individual flourishing and local community engagement. This approach acknowledges that a rich life encompasses not only grand moral ambitions but also personal relationships, creative pursuits, and a sense of belonging. By fostering these diverse "ends-in-themselves," Fractal aims to build resilient, generative communities that support a more complete human experience.