The 10 Principles of Burning Man

Burning Man is an annual event in the Nevada desert where people come together to create a temporary community centered on art, self-expression, and inclusivity. Participants, called “Burners,” build and share large-scale art and unique experiences, often ending with the burning of a giant wooden “Man.” It’s a place for creativity, connection, and personal growth, with everything packed up afterward to leave no trace in the desert.

For the complete definitions visit Burning Man website. Here are principles presented in brief:

Radical Inclusion: Anyone may be a part of Burning Man. We welcome and respect the stranger. No prerequisites exist for participation in our community.

Gifting: Burning Man encourages people to give gifts freely. Giving a gift isn’t about getting something back or expecting anything in return.

Decommodification: To keep the spirit of gifting alive, our community aims to create spaces without any ads, sponsorships, or buying and selling.

Radical Self-reliance: Burning Man encourages the individual to discover, exercise and rely on their inner resources.

Radical Self-Expression: Sharing your unique creativity as a gift to others, while respecting their rights and freedom.

Communal Effort: We value teamwork and collaboration, building social connections, public spaces, art, and communication to support it.

Civic Responsibility: We care about public welfare. Event organizers are responsible for safety, informing participants of civic duties, and following laws.

Leaving No Trace: We respect the environment by leaving no physical impact and cleaning up, often leaving places better than we found them.

Participation: We believe true change happens through personal involvement. Everyone is invited to work, play, and create a meaningful world together.

Immediacy: Direct experience is essential. We aim to break down barriers to fully connect with ourselves, others, society, and the natural world..

Reference: The Burning Man website