Saturday, September 16, 2023

Sept 21: Backsourcing

Great article! I've always been searching for a term to describe activities where we take the initiative to do things ourselves, but in a more serious or thoughtful manner than what "DIY" usually implies. To me, "DIY" often conveys a sense of casualness or just-for-fun projects. I find "backsourcing" to be a more fitting term, as it essentially serves as the antithesis of outsourcing. It signifies that we're reclaiming some of the tasks or production that we've previously outsourced to others.


Additionally, I aim to infuse this concept of backsourcing with a reflective component. For instance, while working on a project like a multi-strand braid, I'll take moments to contemplate the challenges I encounter. This self-reflection helps me appreciate the intricacy of the work and fosters a deeper understanding that I shouldn't take the things I use daily for granted.


Moreover, the act of sourcing materials for these projects also offers a moment for reflection. Rather than simply purchasing "raw materials" from a local store, I find that backsourcing encourages me to think more critically about where these materials come from in the first place. This adds another layer of awareness, helping me to better appreciate the interconnectedness of human society and the complexity of the systems that provide us with these resources.

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