Ikeaism Philosophy
Ikeaism is a way of making the world more comfortable, and to do so with efficiency and a quiet minimalism. Ikeaism is of course inspired by the Swedish furniture company IKEA which has taken over the world (parts, anyway) and changed the way many people feel about home and home furnishings. This Zenlike style can be applied to all aspects of life – placing functionality and logical form over pointless gaudiness and needless accessory, and reducing waste and extravagance. One could fancifully refer to Ikeaism as “Sven Buddhism” due to its commonalities with Zen Buddhist philosophy.
Ikeaism History
Started by Ingvar Kamprad in 1948, today there are now over 400 Ikea stores worldwide. Its stores have pioneered several unique features, such as children’s play areas, cafes and a design that can seem like a psychedelic journey through possible futures. Their popularity has led some to compare the stores to churches. Its business practices generally take a progressive position, doing far more than most companies to protect its workers. Ikea is also proactive in regards to environmentally-friendly manufacturing techniques. Several high-profile controversies have arisen over the decades, but generally they were dealt with or fixed entirely.
Ikeaism Links
The world’s fastest growing religion: The Cult of Ikea
Ikeaisms
Waste of resources is a mortal sin at IKEA.
— Ingvar Kamprad, founder
To do business with a clear conscience is an attitude that pays. We have to find more time for ourselves and to regain respect for the environment in which we live.
— Ingvar Kamprad
The temples of design in places like Milan or God knows where overflow with beautiful, original furniture that costs extortionate amounts of money. The vast majority of people don’t have six-figure amounts in the bank and don’t live in enormous apartments…it is for just such people that I created IKEA. For everybody who wants a comfortable house in which to live well. A need that crosses all countries, races, and religions.
— Ingvar Kamprad
The objective must be to encompass the total home environment; that is, to offer furnishings and fittings for every part of the home whether indoors or outdoors. It must reflect our way of thinking by being as simple and straightforward as we are ourselves. It must be durable and easy to live with. It must reflect an easier, more natural and unconstrained way of life.
— Ingvar Kamprad
The IKEA spirit is a strong and living reality. Simplicity in our behavior gives us strength. Simplicity and humbleness characterize us in our relations with each other, with our suppliers, and with our customers.
— Ingvar Kamprad
Making mistakes is the privilege of the active. It is always the mediocre people who are negative, who spend their time proving that they were not wrong.
— Ingvar Kamprad
Ikeaism Community
Get ordained as an Ikeaist Minister
