Ultimately, any attempt to define the rave spirit must come from what people actually experience at raves. The testimonials found here demonstrate that raving can only be fully understood through direct participation.

PLUR stands for Peace, Love, Unity and Respect. These four ideals are often touted as the elements that make raves more positive and life affirming than other kinds of parties or club scenes.

At the heart of a true rave there's the pulse of something intangiable; a positive unifying groove, a special feeling, an extraordinary vibe that transcends simple descriptions.

Anyone who has ever become involved with the rave community knows how easy it is to become philisophical and idealistic about what it all means. For some, raving represents a hopeful vision of what might ultimately be possible for the future of humankind.

DJs are like shamans; forging musical paths to other realms. Science and technology give us the tools. Technoshamanism explores the synergy between the abstract and the physical.

Whether raving is a spiritual revolution that is going to change the world, or just a chance to dance to some great music, ravers know they are crazy by most standards and take very seriously the importance of fun.

Though raving is often a spontaneous of the moment activity, the ability to completely let go of our mental and emotional constraints often depends on an underlying sense of security and safety. Everything is interconnected; love and respect involves being aware of, looking out for, and taking care of ourselves and each other.

Raving is now a part of our human culture and history. The things we do at raves are not new or totally unique. Nor do raves happen in complete isolation from other existing cultural forces.

Raves are like Temporary Autonomous Zones (TAZs) - separate, selfgoverning events that take place between the cracks of society's fabric. But sometimes the rave community is forced to deal with the politics of a world in turmoil.

Outside of raves, new connections are made, old ones maintained, information is exchanged. Technology fosters communication: Interacting over the internet helps bring us together.

As we open our minds and transcend our limits, we can explore beyond the rave to discover ideas and knowledge relevant to our lives and dreams.