It explains the evolutionary origins of mutual endeavour and how our ability to co-operate and work with others for mutual benefit is a natural human characteristic. It discusses the central role co-operatives and other forms of mutual organisations play in modernising UK housing policy.

The 'third estate' follows the first in the series, 'New Mutualism - the third way' by Peter Kellner and continues the theme of mutuality and the selfish gene.  It argues the importance of social and personal education as the key to unlocking the capacity of individuals and communities to act for mutual outcomes. 

In housing terms, the potential for tenant control to have a direct impact on social and personal education and the dependancy culture, is explored.  It looks at the role of government as the catalyst for change and goes on to make the political case for radical changes to the framework of the social housing system. 

The pamphlet concludes by making the case for mutual tenure to be enshrined in UK land and property law as a third estate in which rights of occupation and control arise from membership of a mutual social housing provider.

To download 'the third estate' in pdf or Word format and for further information about publications in the new mutualism series click here