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We’re all in this world together, so it’s probably a good idea that we’re nice to each other. The La Petite Syrah Café in France has already shifted its pricing model to benefit those who are friendly, and now a new project called Talk To Me London wants to explore different ways to get the city’s 8 million multicultural residents to share their stories with each other.

Prompted by the perception of London as an unfriendly place where millions of commuters cram onto the tube each day while simultaneously trying their best to avoid eye contact with one another, the scheme is looking to provoke its residents to break down these social barriers and get to know each other better. It is currently working towards the first Talk To Me London Day in August, which is seeking funding through Kickstarter. The day will see organizers hand out Talk To Me badges that indicate to others that wearers are up for a chat. A number of spontaneous events and flash mobs will also be planned in public spaces, such as book clubs on the tube, and dinner parties in parks. The video below offers some more information about the project:

The crowdfunding campaign is looking for just GBP 6,000 to help launch the event, which will lead to a more sustained effort to keep the conversation going after it’s ended, and backers can contribute until 26 April. Could something similar help to improve society in your part of the world?

Kickstarter: www.kck.st/1m72Ixm