mustists

Mustists are adherents of Mustism, a philosophical-religious movement that centers on the primacy of musts—obligatory prescriptions that guide conduct. The movement emerged in the early 21st century among philosophers and social thinkers who sought a practical ethical framework capable of addressing daily choices without collapsing into relativism. Mustists argue that actions should be judged by their fidelity to a system of musts, which may be universal in principle or contextually grounded in community, ecology, and personal well-being.

Core tenets include the Must Principle, which posits that meaningful action corresponds to meeting a necessary obligation; the Minimization Principle, which calls for reducing superfluous desires and distractions; and the Interdependence Principle, which extends moral consideration to non-human beings and future generations. The practice of reflective dialogue is emphasized, inviting ongoing critique, revision, and dialogue about which obligations hold in given circumstances. Many Mustists also cultivate environmental stewardship and simple living as concrete expressions of the musts.

Practices commonly involve daily Musting, a disciplined process of identifying the day’s musts, followed by study, journaling, and small-scale communal service. Ethical deliberation, study of core texts, and participation in local Household communities are typical features. There is no central priesthood; governance is decentralized, with Household councils and elder Mustists guiding local matters and mediating disputes.

History and influence are contemporaneous with broader debates about ethics, rational religion, and secular philosophy. Proponents emphasize clarity and practical ethics; critics argue that rigid adherence to musts can verge on dogmatism or absolutism. Mustism remains a minor, multi-local movement with no universal credentialing body.