Imagining and Enacting Desirable Futures : A Study of French Eco-Communities

Abstract: This thesis departs from the assumption that the current socio-ecological crises require new and alternative imaginaries as well as lifestyle changes. Following a qualitative research method, seven semi-structured interviews were conducted with eco-community members and analysed thematically to determine their motivations, values and beliefs, and search for a potential common imaginary. As imaginaries shape behaviours, they also have the potential to motivate change. It is argued in this thesis that eco-community members are actively implementing local transformative change according to their alternative imaginaries. Results show that eco-community members think of imaginaries as primarily personal and that their implementation of change is turned towards the individual and local scale. This thesis explores both theoretical perspectives such as utopias, third places, autonomy and also practices like permaculture and education on sustainable lifestyles. Ultimately, this study shows how hope is rooted in the tangible actions of some citizens who are already working to create desirable futures.