★ PLUR ★

Peace Love Unity Respect, commonly shortened with PLUR, is the credo of the rave and EDM culture. PLUR dates back to the late '80s and early '90s rave scene in the UK which incorporated House and Acid House music that originated in Chicago during the '80s.

It may be interpreted as the raver or clubber's essential philosophy of life, at least insomuch as it relates to interpersonal relationships, with basic directions on how people are expected to behave at a rave/EDM gathering or every day life. This universalist philosophy underpinning the tribal dance culture which began circling the globe with the rise of the internet, theoretically takes precedence over any chemical or musical aspects of the rave scene.  Raves represent a modern ritualistic experience, promoting a strong communal sense, where PLUR is considered an ideology.

Within the Kandi culture, there can be a symbolic handshake that rave-goers exchange with one another. This handshake usually includes the exchange of Kandi bracelets, which are handmade bracelets crafted with pony beads. Trading kandi creates a bond and transfer of energy between the people experiencing the trade.  

  • Peace – Hostility typically serves no purpose other than to defend an ego that is lacking inner peace. It is a common belief among the rave culture that violence is never the answer.
  • Love – Acts and feelings of goodwill towards all others. The exchange of gestures such as hugging can be seen in immense amounts at any rave; this being a way of "spreading the love."
  • Unity – We are all united in the human condition.
  • Respect – A person must show regard for the feelings of others through their actions and inaction, and one must have respect for oneself and the environment.