A manifesto is a published declaration of the intentions, motives, or views of the issuer, be it an individual, group, political party, or government. It can be political, social, or artistic in nature, and may present an individuals life stance. Manifestos can be revolutionary and promote new ideas with prescriptive notions for carrying out changes the author believes should be made. They can also be used to accept a previously published opinion or public consensus. Manifestos can relate to religious belief and are generally referred to as creeds or confessions of faith.
Manifestos are generally written in the name of a group sharing a common perspective, ideology, or purpose rather than in the name of a single individual. They often mark the adoption of a new vision, approach, program, or genre. Manifestos can criticize a present state of affairs but also announce its passing, proclaiming the advent of a new movement or even of a new era. In this sense, manifestos combine a sometimes violent societal critique with an inaugural and inspirational declaration of change. Although manifestos can claim to speak for the majority, they are often authored by a nonconformist minority and are linked to the idea of an avant-garde that signals or even leads the way to change.
Manifestos can serve as long-term goals for individuals or groups and can inspire sweeping change. They can be used to outline core beliefs and inspire others to take action. Manifestos can address any topic, but they most often concern art, literature, or politics.
