The Organization for Intra-Cultural Development F.A.Q

What is Intra-Cultural Development?

Intra-Cultural Development seeks to prevent/reduce conflict and improve the quality and policies of society through 1. Improving our insight into internal social and cultural systems and movements 2. Helping a variety of people to understand how they themselves work as social or cultural beings. 3. Creating and expanding people’s abilities to see themselves as members of communities, cultures and/or nations.

Read more about Intra-Cultural Development in this feature article by OICD director Bruce White. You can also view a pdf file (600kb) which graphically represents the how Intra-Cultrual Development is praticed and applied.

Who are the OICD?

The OICD is an organization made up of many people who share an interest in the goals and activities of the organization. There is general worldwide membership of academic and non-academic members (currently around the 200 mark), and an executive committee of 11 academics from a variety of disciplines (anthropology, education, linguistics, drama, psychology) who make decisions as to how the organization runs. In addition, we have a growing number of Research Affiliates, special members who help to define and refine our approach and work by combining their research interests to develop Intra-Cultural theory and information.

How do I become a member?

To become a member simply fill in your email address below. You will be subscribed to the OICD mailing list which will keep you up to date with all of the organizations activities and events.

How do I contribute to the organization more actively?

You may like to browse some volunteer posts we have available here.

If you are interested in more specific areas of the OICD’s activities, please contact us directly.

In addition, we have a research and general affiliate scheme in development, which will be publicised here shortly.

Where is the OICD based?

The OICD is based at the University of Doshisha, Kyoto, Japan.

Why is the OICD based in Kyoto?

Kyoto is an international crossroads for academic and artistic movement and exchange. The city has many universities and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors interested in participating in large and timely academic and non-academic debates every year.

In addition, anthropologists often concur that Japan presents a rich set of examples of how to understand oneself as integral to, yet distinct from, surrounding social groups. The country thus offers a set of real-world examples of how particular social understanding affects individuals and collectives.

Lastly, the OICD director, Dr. Bruce White holds a lectureship in Anthropology and Sociology in the Faculty of Social Studies, at the University of Doshisha and is therefore able to host and co-ordinate the OICD meetings and gatherings in the city.

Does the OICD offer scholarships or other kinds of financial support?

Although the OICD does in future want to financially support individuals and groups working on projects related to its aims, it currently is unable to do so.

Can I view the OICD constitution?

The full OICD constitution will be available in pdf format here soon. The below graphic expresses many of the aims and principles in the constitution. Click on it for a larger (600kb) pdf version.

The Organisation for Intra-Cultural Development (OICD)