I Think Therefore I Jam

Introduction

Welcome to Intelek International's "Rational Revelry" project "I Think, Therefore I Jam" (ITTIJ).

The fundamental purpose of this project - as with all Intelek products and services - is to promote a balanced, sound approach to life in general, and to one's sexuality in particular. Dancing or "jamming", which, in the party context, is often a prelude to unplanned, unprotected sex, is therefore addressed from a proactive, "logical" perspective. Hence the theme, "I Think, Therefore I Jam", a derivation of the Cartesian philosophical credo, "I think therefore I am".

ITTIJ treats jamming - whether it is the sensual, suggestive Caribbean variety or one of the less suggestive European, American or other forms - as an expression of the human need for "play": our need for seasons of "abandonment", when we let our hair down and give vent to our primal passions. These permissive periods are viewed as natural, inevitable intervals of "degeneration" that precede personal regeneration, rejuvenation and renewal. The fundamental goal of ITTIJ then, is to promote personal sensitivity to and harmony with the rhythms of life.

This balanced view of partying is considered particularly important today in light of the challenge being posed to the Caribbean by HIV/AIDS. A number of regional commentators have in fact noted a link between the prevalence of HIV/AIDS and the increased revelry and related sexual activity that ensues around Trinidad's annual Carnival season.

Among other things, ITTIJ will therefore promote 12 "Principles of Partying". These are presented as Calypso Cricket strategies. The framing of these strategies in cricketing language not only draws on images widely familiar to Caribbean people, but also invokes notions of the balance of natural movement and "mental toughness" that carried West Indies cricket to international dominance.

1. Captain your kadooment - you are in charge; keep your head on

2. Let your vice be without victims - the second command in your line of defence

3. If you're going to be a "wicked-keeper" (wicket-keeper), "Keep, Your Clothes On"

4. Bat to stay till "end of play" - remember your life-goals/dreams

5. Manage your middle order - manage your moods and impulses

6. Direct your drives - beat the "feelers"

7. It's all about "line and length" - your core values; the limits you set yourself

8. Keep your "line and length" - don't get 'knocked-up" or knocked around

9. One foot behind the line - don't go too far; no "No-Balls".

10. Take your catches - if a way out is offered, take it.

11. Last Man - hold on; don't give in.

12. Trust the "Twelfth Man". When the first eleven fail, use a condom.