Welcome to Moonshot Press
At Moonshot Press, our mission is both simple and profound: to contribute meaningfully toward the realization of the radical promise articulated in the Declaration of Independence—that all people are created equal, with the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. As we approach the 250th anniversary of this bold experiment in democracy, we are energized by both the challenges and the opportunities of our time.
In 2025, humanity stands at a critical juncture. Geopolitical tensions, environmental crises, social polarization, and the transformative impact of artificial intelligence present profound risks to democratic life. Yet, these challenges also open the door to unprecedented opportunities for progress. Moonshot Press is committed to shaping a future conversation that maximizes the next generation’s chance to thrive in a world aligned with the radical promise of the Declaration. The alternative—a dystopian world where these challenges go unaddressed—is one we cannot accept.
Why Moonshot Press?
A free press is the cornerstone of any democracy, charged with informing the public, holding power accountable, and fostering civic engagement. Yet, the past decade has exposed significant shortcomings in our current media landscape, which often prioritizes sensationalism over substance. At this pivotal moment, we believe the media must do better.
Moonshot Press seeks to reimagine the role of media in democracy. We are an independent, non-partisan, subscriber-supported initiative rooted in the ideals of the Declaration of Independence. Our goal is not just to inform but to empower, creating a space for informed discussion, meaningful action, and innovative solutions to the complex issues of our time.
Our Vision
Moonshot Press envisions a world where democracy is continually revitalized by active citizen participation. We see this as the foundation of a society where every individual, regardless of background, has the opportunity to flourish. By fostering dialogue and collaboration, we aim to build a healthier, more inclusive, and resilient democracy.
What Makes Moonshot Press Unique?
We are inspired by the ideals of the Democracy. Opportunity. Citizenship. Moonshot, a vision of an inclusive society where every person has the tools and opportunities to thrive. Moonshot Press is your launchpad for engaging with this vision and shaping the future.
At the heart of our approach is the conviction that citizens are sovereign, and the press has a vital role in engaging and empowering them. Through innovative media strategies, practical tools, and dynamic platforms, we aim to inspire collective action and provide resources for informed participation.
Why Now?
As the U.S. approaches its 250th anniversary, it’s time to reflect on the principles that founded our nation and ask how we can renew them for the future. The urgency of this moment demands a media platform that transcends division and delivers actionable content, helping citizens cut through the noise and take meaningful steps to shape their communities.
Moonshot Press is not just about reporting the news—it’s about equipping citizens with the insights, tools, and inspiration they need to make a difference.
Deepening Citizen Engagement
Citizen engagement is at the core of our mission. We provide tools and resources to help you actively participate in shaping your community and your nation. From interactive forums and deliberative discussions to collaborative initiatives, Moonshot Press supports your journey toward informed, meaningful participation.
Our goal is simple: to help build a future where the principles of the Declaration of Independence—equality, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness—are more than ideals. They are a lived reality for all.
Join us in this Moonshot for democracy. Let’s aim high, act boldly, and create a future worthy of the vision that inspired our nation’s founding.
Our Five Key Areas of Focus
Our work is organized around five interconnected focus areas, each essential to fostering a thriving democratic society:
1. Democracy: Challenges and Opportunities
Reimagining what it means for every citizen to thrive by addressing political polarization, economic inequality, and eroding public trust. We explore ways to protect and expand democratic participation, fostering resilience and empowering citizens to engage meaningfully in the political process.
2. Community: Building Stronger Communities through Collective Action
Strong communities are the backbone of a healthy democracy. We examine how social, economic, and environmental factors shape community well-being, highlighting collective action as a tool for resilience and equity.
3. Health: Enhancing Health and Wellbeing
Health is foundational to both individual and societal flourishing. We advocate for a healthcare system that prioritizes well-being through the salutogenic approach—focusing on prevention, health creation, and equitable access for all.
4. Technology: Artificial Intelligence in the Public Sphere
AI is reshaping society, and its impact on democracy cannot be ignored. We explore AI’s potential to enhance or threaten democratic values, advocating for thoughtful dialogue, ethical practices, and equitable innovation.
5. Media: Exploring the Media’s Role in Democracy
Media plays a critical role in informing citizens and fostering public discourse. We model credible, responsible journalism and advocate for media practices that prioritize truth, transparency, and accountability in the age of AI and misinformation.
Our Key Initiatives
Moonshot Press translates its vision into action through targeted initiatives that address critical issues. These initiatives exemplify our commitment to fostering a thriving democracy and empowering citizens to make meaningful change.
1. The First 1,000 Days of Life
This initiative focuses on the foundations of human flourishing, from preconception through a child’s second birthday. By adopting a salutogenic approach, we aim to create environments that promote maternal and infant well-being, ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive from the very start.
2.The COVID-19 Citizen Commission
A citizen-oriented initiative examining the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, this project highlights the need for community-driven responses to public health crises. It explores lessons learned and actionable steps for creating more resilient health systems and societies.
3. The Case of the U.S. Healthcare System
This initiative reimagines healthcare by shifting the focus from treating illness to promoting overall health. Through various formats, Moonshot Press delves into the complexities of the U.S. healthcare system, empowering citizens to better understand their role as individuals, consumers, and advocates.
4.The Case of Cancer of the US Political System: Using the metaphor of cancer to diagnose and address systemic dysfunctions in the American political system, this initiative parallels biological cancer's unchecked growth with issues like polarization, corruption, and erosion of trust.
5. Shrink Notes: Shrink the Government
This psychologically informed citizen journal addresses timely issues at the intersection of health, democracy, media, technology, and community. By applying psychological insights, this initiative offers unique perspectives on challenges facing society today.
The Institute for Salutogenesis
Dedicated to exploring the principles of salutogenesis, this initiative emphasizes holistic health creation as a framework for maternal and infant well-being. The Institute focuses on fostering environments that promote health and well-being, with the ultimate goal of creating healthier, more resilient communities.
Hyperlocal Focus: Thrive in Montco PA
Our inaugural initiative, Thrive in Montco PA, puts our principles into action at the community level. This hyperlocal project serves as a testing ground for our broader mission, demonstrating how deeply engaged citizens can create meaningful change. By focusing on Montgomery County, PA, we explore how local initiatives can inspire national progress.
How We Empower You
At Moonshot Press, we provide tools and resources that empower you to make an impact:
The Citizen Toolbox: Practical resources for real-world civic engagement.
Deliberative Forums: Interactive spaces where citizens, experts, and policymakers collaborate on pressing issues.
Citizen Briefs:: In-depth articles and podcasts that break down complex topics and spark informed discussions.
Through these platforms, we amplify your voice, hold leaders accountable, and help you build a brighter future for your community and our democracy.
Join the Movement
Moonshot Press isn’t just about providing news—it’s about building a better democracy. By subscribing, you become part of a community dedicated to fostering informed action and systemic change.
Ready to make an impact? Subscribe today and step into your role as an empowered citizen. Together, let’s shape a thriving, inclusive democracy.
Don't just watch democracy happen—shape it with Moonshot Press.
Want to dive deeper? Learn more about our core principles, strategies, and platforms and start making a tangible impact today.
As we near the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, it’s time to renew our promise to the founding ideals of equality, liberty, and opportunity. Moonshot Press is your call to action—a movement for everyone who believes in strengthening democracy and making it work for all.
Core Pillars of Moonshot Press: Democracy, Opportunity, and Citizenship
As we approach the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Moonshot Press is dedicated to redefining our commitment to the founding ideals that have shaped our nation. Our mission is a call to action for everyone who believes in making democracy work better for all. We envision a democracy built on the idea that citizens are sovereign and continually revitalized by active citizen participation. Our vision rests on three core pillars: Democracy, Opportunity, and Citizenship. Together, these pillars drive our mission to build our moonshot: a world where every voice matters and every citizen has the tools to thrive.
Our Vision
Moonshot Press envisions a world where democracy is continually revitalized by active citizen participation. We see this as the foundation of a society where every individual, regardless of background, has the opportunity to flourish. By fostering dialogue and collaboration, we aim to build a healthier, more inclusive, and resilient democracy.
Pillars of Moonshot Press: Democracy, Opportunity, and Citizenship
At the core of Moonshot Press lies our Moonshot vision, built on three foundational pillars: Democracy, Opportunity, and Citizenship. By weaving these pillars through all our content and initiatives, we strive to inspire action, foster equity, and empower communities.
Democracy: Making Democracy Work for All Citizens
Description
Democracy is more than a system of governance; it is a shared responsibility built on the political equality of all citizens. At its best, democracy thrives when individuals are informed, engaged, and proactive participants in shaping the future.
Questions Addressed
How can the foundational ideals articulated in the Declaration of Independence be implemented today?
What is the role of government in facilitating human flourishing?
How can citizens reclaim their sovereignty and influence public policy effectively?
Activities
Deliberative Democracy: Organizing structured dialogues to reduce polarization and encourage collaborative problem-solving.
The Case of the U.S. Healthcare System: Reimagining healthcare by shifting the focus from treating illness to promoting overall health. This initiative empowers citizens to better understand their roles as individuals, consumers, and advocates.
The Case of Cancer of the US Political System: Using the metaphor of cancer to diagnose and address systemic dysfunctions in the American political system, this initiative parallels biological cancer's unchecked growth with issues like polarization, corruption, and erosion of trust.
Shrink Notes: Shrink the Government A psychologically informed citizen journal addressing timely issues at the intersection of health, democracy, media, technology, and community through unique perspectives.
Opportunity: Creating Pathways for Flourishing Lives
Description
Opportunity is the cornerstone of a fair society. It begins with ensuring every individual has a fair chance to thrive by addressing systemic barriers and fostering equitable access to resources. Starting with the critical first 1,000 days of life, Moonshot Press prioritizes laying the foundation for lifelong well-being.
Questions Addressed
What factors contribute to the creation, development, and maintenance of optimal well-being?
What conditions allow citizens to thrive and flourish?
How do early-life interventions impact an individual’s ability to achieve core capabilities?
Activities
The First 1,000 Days of Life: Focused on human flourishing from preconception through a child’s second birthday, this initiative promotes maternal and child health, early childhood education, and family support systems.
Whole Person Salutogenic Assistant: An AI-powered digital assistant designed to enhance health and well-being throughout life. Built on the salutogenic paradigm, it provides personalized, evidence-based health assessments and actionable insights tailored to individual circumstances.
Citizenship: Inspiring Active Participation and Systemic Change
Description
Citizenship extends beyond legal status—it’s a call to action. True citizenship involves shaping governance, advocating for justice, and contributing to the collective well-being of our communities. Moonshot Press empowers individuals to move beyond passive observation to become active agents of change.
Questions Addressed
How can individuals influence governance and promote systemic change?
What practical steps can citizens take to advocate for justice and community well-being?
How can we reframe citizenship to foster greater engagement and accountability?
Activities
The Citizen Toolbox: A suite of digital tools designed to enhance civic engagement. These tools provide access to information, mobilize causes, and facilitate deliberative dialogues that enrich democracy.
Deliberative Platforms: Interactive spaces where citizens, experts, and policymakers collaborate on pressing issues through meaningful dialogue and collective decision-making.
Hyperlocal Focus: Thrive in Montco PA: A community-driven initiative demonstrating how deeply engaged citizens can create meaningful change at the local level.
Putting It All Together: Toward a Democracy, Opportunity, and Citizenship Framework
By uniting Democracy, Opportunity, and Citizenship, Moonshot Press seeks to create an environment where each individual has the resources, support, and agency needed to flourish. We address critical issues—like polarization, public health, AI governance, and economic inequality—through in-depth reporting, investigative journalism, and community-driven initiatives.
Our core principles guide every facet of our work, ensuring that informed citizens remain the heart of a dynamic and equitable society. Together, we can create a future where democracy is revitalized, opportunity is universal, and citizenship is a vibrant, collective endeavor.
Applying the Salutogenic Lens to Democracy, Opportunity, and Citizenship
Moonshot Press aims to create a paradigm shift in how citizens engage with democracy. By focusing on the core principles of democracy, opportunity, and citizenship, and utilizing a salutogenic framework, we provide tools and resources for citizens to actively participate in shaping a healthier and more equitable future.
“Salus Populi Suprema Lex”: The Health of the People is the Supreme Law
At Moonshot Press, we view Democracy, Opportunity, and Citizenship through a salutogenic lens. Originally developed by medical sociologist Aaron Antonovsky, the salutogenic approach emphasizes the factors that promote health, well-being, and resilience, rather than focusing solely on problems or deficits. This perspective resonates with our mission to create environments where every individual can flourish and actively participate in society.
Maximizing Biological and Psychological Factors
A key component of the salutogenic model is recognizing that biological and psychological factors—such as proper nutrition, quality healthcare, and nurturing relationships—are crucial for enabling individuals to reach their full potential. This is particularly significant during the first 1,000 days of life, a period of rapid neural development and growth. By ensuring a strong start during this formative window, we can equip future generations with the foundations needed to thrive, driving equity and long-term societal well-being.
Fostering Sense of Coherence and Belonging
The salutogenic lens also highlights the importance of sense of coherence and belonging. Sense of coherence refers to how comprehensible, manageable, and meaningful individuals perceive life’s challenges—factors that directly influence their capacity to navigate stress and seize opportunities. When people feel they belong within their communities and that their voices are genuinely valued, civic engagement and social cohesion deepen. This supportive environment not only propels individuals toward personal fulfillment but also strengthens democracy by encouraging active participation and collective problem-solving.
A Strengths-Based Approach
By adopting a strengths-based view, the salutogenic paradigm aligns with the essence of Democracy, Opportunity, and Citizenship. Rather than fixating on what’s broken, we focus on leveraging existing assets, fostering social connections, and enabling communities to address challenges collaboratively. This approach ensures that all individuals—including those born into marginalized circumstances—have a realistic path to participate fully in civic life, benefit from equal opportunities, and contribute to a resilient, flourishing society.
A Renewed Depth and Vitality
In short, Democracy, Opportunity, and Citizenship gain renewed depth and vitality through the salutogenic lens. By amplifying factors that bolster health, well-being, and a strong sense of belonging—particularly in the first 1,000 days—Moonshot Press seeks to create a robust, inclusive democracy where every person can thrive and play an active role in shaping our shared future.
About the name Moonshot Press
Introduction: A New Kind of Launch
The term "moonshot" evokes a powerful image: a bold, audacious goal, seemingly impossible, yet achieved through vision, dedication, and collective effort. It conjures the Apollo program, a national commitment to a very complex undertaking that led to Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong's historic steps on the lunar surface and a safe return to Earth. This achievement symbolizes the pursuit of bold, transformative goals and the commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
At Moonshot Press, we believe the American experiment itself began as a moonshot. In 1776, the Declaration of Independence wasn't just a document; it was a radical declaration of a new way of thinking about governance, a bold assertion of inalienable rights and popular sovereignty. It was a vision as audacious as reaching the moon, a challenge to the established order of the world. The founders, like the engineers of NASA, dared to dream of something that had never existed before: a nation built on the principles of individual liberty and self-determination.
The Constitution, with its intricate mechanisms of checks and balances and its commitment to the rule of law, served as the roadmap for this ambitious endeavor, much like the meticulously planned missions that guided Apollo astronauts. It laid the foundation for an ongoing experiment, one that continues to evolve and challenge us nearly 250 years later.
However, today, this experiment faces significant challenges. We launch Moonshot Press into a polarized American public, where faith in government has eroded, fellow citizens are often viewed as adversaries, and the system itself is perceived as rigged. Too many have been excluded from full participation in the national enterprise, denied a voice and marginalized. An information environment shaped by media and social media often exacerbates this toxic environment, promoting conflict and divisiveness.
Moonshot Press is guided by the original moonshot of the founders and recognizes the essential role of human agency in addressing these challenges. We are committed to engaging with the American experiment in all its complexities and contradictions. We seek to explore the ongoing pursuit of those ideals enshrined in the Declaration, to examine the successes and failures, the triumphs and setbacks, of this grand and still unfolding endeavor. We aim to be a catalyst for significant, positive change, leveraging media and community engagement as powerful tools for enlightening, empowering, and mobilizing citizens towards creating a more informed, engaged, and equitable society. Like the original moonshot projects that inspired awe and brought humanity together to achieve the extraordinary, we strive to foster informed discourse, amplify diverse voices, and contribute to a deeper understanding of what it means to be part of this continuing quest for a more perfect union.
We believe the spirit of the moonshot—the courage to dream big, the commitment to work tirelessly, and the belief in the possibility of a better future—is as vital today as it was in 1776 and in the 1960s. Join us as we explore the next chapter of this extraordinary journey.
Core Principles of Moonshot Press
Moonshot Press is dedicated to fostering a more informed, equitable, and participatory society by upholding the core principles that underpin American democracy and responsible journalism. As we approach the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, these principles guide our work and shape our commitment to creating lasting, measurable change.
Upholding Foundational Democratic Principles: At the heart of our work is a commitment to the core tenets of American democracy: the inherent equality of all individuals and their unalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness; citizen sovereignty, where ultimate power rests with informed, active citizens; and the pursuit of a more perfect union through active civic engagement. This includes promoting civic engagement, protecting free speech, upholding democratic values, and ensuring that citizens have the opportunity to shape their government and society.
Empowering Informed Citizens: A well-informed public is the bedrock of a healthy democracy. We empower citizens by providing them with the knowledge, tools, and platforms to make informed decisions and take meaningful action. This includes public education and awareness initiatives that demystify complex topics and fostering deliberative engagement through meaningful dialogue among citizens, experts, and policymakers.
Ethical, Solutions-Oriented Journalism: We believe that a free press is essential to a functioning democracy. We adhere to the highest standards of journalistic integrity, prioritizing accuracy, fairness, and accountability. We are committed to responsible journalism that serves the public interest, holds power accountable, amplifies diverse voices, and moves beyond sensationalism to offer constructive dialogue and solutions-oriented reporting. This includes research and investigative reporting, which delves deeply into societal issues using interdisciplinary methods.
Embracing Complexity and Nuance for Effective Action: Recognizing that societal issues are often multifaceted, we engage with complexity honestly and thoughtfully. We provide well-rounded perspectives that respect the nuances of each issue to develop effective, evidence-based solutions. We focus on solutions, not slogans, and prioritize tangible actions that address pressing social, political, and health-related issues.
Promoting Equity and Ethical Standards through Advocacy: We are committed to promoting equity and social justice through policy advocacy rooted in ethical principles. We work to influence the development and enforcement of guidelines that ensure technology and policy support, rather than undermine, social equity and responsible innovation.
Local Focus, Global Impact: We prioritize local engagement as a crucial testing ground for our ideas and approaches. By deeply understanding the realities and needs of local communities, we can develop and refine effective strategies that can then be scaled to address broader national and global challenges. This localized approach allows us to make a tangible impact while fostering a sense of interconnectedness and shared purpose within and across communities.
