What is a Manifesto? Who writes a Manifesto? What is the role of an architectural manifesto?

Manifesto: a written statement declaring publicly the intentions, motives, or views of its issuer
(Merriam Webster dictionary)
A manifesto is a public declaration of principles and intentions, often political in nature. Manifestos relating to religious belief are generally referred to as creeds. Manifestos may also be life stance-related. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manifesto) (see this for interesting idea of range of political, artistic and technological manifestos)
A manifesto serves as both a statement of principal and a call to action. It challenges the reader to acknowledge the divide between those principles and their current reality. It is a rallying call to foster committment and provoke change.
In the introduction on Page 11 to his book, Programs and manifestoes on 20th-century architecture, the author Ulrich Conrads, speaks to the ideas behind the manifesto: “There has really been no lack of critical and revolutionary actions and statements during this century (20th). The back cover text discusses what is collected in the book:
“The present volume offers eloquent testimony that many of the master builders of this century have held passionate convictions regarding the philosophic and social basis of their art. Nearly every important development in the modern architectural movement began with the proclamation of these convictions in the form of a program or manifesto.”
This assignment asks you to consider the manifesto in 2 parts in as few or as many words that you find appropriate to make a clear and original argument.
Part I: In your own words, describe your understanding of a manifesto, possible points you may consider:
What is a Manifesto?
Who writes a Manifesto?
What is the role of an architectural manifesto?
Who is the audience?
What kind of language is used?
How are they distributed?
Are Manifestoes political???
How is a Manifesto architecture? Is it? Is it not?

We have read Adolf Loos’s manifesto up until this point and will continue to examine other manifestoes over the next number of classes. Use examples of actual manifestos to make your point.

Part II: What is your Manifesto?, Write this out as you see fit. How would you disseminate this? Consider using some of the following techniques:

Be direct in your language
Define your group and/or your cause
Show your passion for your cause in order to inspire passion in your audience.
Be persuasive. Include facts and opinions to support your cause.