:: M squared T ::

:: Thursday, February 20, 2003 ::

I have had a request to try to come up with a positive definition of community. In my reflections over the last couple of days, the "why" question of community (which I answered by a somewhat negative appraisal of "accountability") has led to a reflection upon the nature of humanity. I'm not sure yet if I'm comfortable "landing" anywhere yet... but here are some aspects to community that are very important, if not essential.

-Identity: People in a community share a common identity that even if not verbalized is recognized at some level by all.

-Boundaries: Identity naturally leads to a definition of boundaries. Defining a "we are" (even non-verbally or implicitly) necessitates a "they aren't." How flexible and fluid and porous these boundaries are, indeed, where the boundaries are, is up to the group.

-Commitment: People in a community have a level of interest or commitment that creates staying power.

-Common Life: Communities have some sort of collaborative aspect to life - at the very least, working alongside each other in parallel.

These are all weak definitions, and require more elaboration. Neither is the list complete. Input would be appreciated.

:: Matt 2/20/2003 12:18:00 AM :: permalink :: ::
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