Long Description
An intentional community is a planned residential setup where people share a common vision or purpose, working together to maintain and grow their community. This concept emphasizes collective living, mutual aid, and often, a shared commitment to certain ideological or ethical principles. Intentional communities can be formed around various focal points such as ecological living, cooperative economics, spiritual endeavors, and more.
Historical Context
The idea of intentional communities dates back centuries, with examples found in various cultures worldwide:
- Ancient Times: Monastic orders and religious sects often formed early intentional communities.
- 19th Century: The Shakers and the Oneida Community in the United States focused on communal living and shared labor.
- 20th Century: The rise of communes in the 1960s and 70s, often rooted in countercultural movements.
Types/Categories
Intentional communities can be categorized based on their guiding principles:
- Ecovillages: Focus on sustainable living and environmental stewardship.
- Co-Housing: Combines private homes with shared common facilities.
- Housing Cooperatives: Owned and managed collectively by residents.
- Spiritual Communities: Centered around religious or spiritual practices.
- Urban Intentional Communities: Integrated into city life, focusing on urban renewal or social justice.
Key Events
- 1848: Establishment of the Oneida Community in New York, emphasizing communal living and shared labor.
- 1960s-70s: Surge of communal living experiments during the countercultural movement, particularly in the United States and Europe.
- 1990s: Growth of ecovillages and sustainable living communities worldwide.
Detailed Explanations
An intentional community is not just about living close to others but integrating shared values and goals into everyday life. Members typically engage in:
- Collective Decision-Making: Utilizing models like consensus or sociocracy to govern themselves.
- Shared Resources: Pooling money, tools, and labor to reduce costs and enhance cooperation.
- Community Projects: Engaging in activities that benefit all members, such as gardening, childcare, or education.
Mathematical Formulas/Models
While there are no specific mathematical formulas, several models help in designing and maintaining intentional communities:
- Consensus Decision-Making Model: Ensures all voices are heard and decisions are made collectively.
- Economic Models: Shared economy principles where costs and labor are distributed among members.
Charts and Diagrams
graph TD;
A[Community Vision] --> B[Shared Goals]
B --> C[Collective Decision-Making]
C --> D[Resource Sharing]
D --> E[Community Projects]
E --> F[Social Cohesion and Teamwork]
Importance and Applicability
Intentional communities offer numerous benefits:
- Environmental Sustainability: Reduce ecological footprints through shared resources and sustainable practices.
- Social Support: Stronger networks of support and friendship.
- Economic Efficiency: Lower living costs through shared expenses.
Examples
- Findhorn Foundation (Scotland): Focused on spiritual living and sustainable practices.
- Twin Oaks Community (USA): An income-sharing commune with a diverse economy.
- Christie Walk (Australia): An urban ecovillage promoting environmental sustainability.
Considerations
- Commitment Level: Requires a significant commitment to collective living and decision-making.
- Conflict Resolution: Mechanisms to manage disputes and ensure harmony.
- Sustainability: Long-term viability and adaptability to changing conditions.
Related Terms
- Ecovillage: A type of intentional community focused on sustainable living.
- Cooperative Housing: Residential communities where ownership and responsibilities are shared.
- Cohousing: Private homes with extensive shared facilities.
Comparisons
- Intentional Community vs. Traditional Neighborhood: Intentional communities focus on shared goals and collective management, whereas traditional neighborhoods may lack such cohesion.
Interesting Facts
- Some intentional communities, like Auroville in India, aim to create a universal town free from political and religious division.
- Modern cohousing communities often integrate state-of-the-art green technology.
Inspirational Stories
- The Findhorn Foundation started with three individuals and now inspires sustainable living practices globally.
Famous Quotes
- “Community is much more than belonging to something; it’s about doing something together that makes belonging matter.” - Brian Solis
Proverbs and Clichés
- “It takes a village to raise a child.”
Expressions, Jargon, and Slang
- Ecovillager: A member of an ecovillage.
- Cohouser: A resident of a cohousing community.
FAQs
Q: What is the main benefit of living in an intentional community?
A: The primary benefit is the enhanced social support and sense of belonging, along with the potential for more sustainable living practices.
Q: Do intentional communities have specific governance structures?
A: Yes, many use collective decision-making models like consensus or sociocracy.
References
- Intentional Communities: An Overview by the Fellowship for Intentional Community.
- Creating a Life Together: Practical Tools to Grow Ecovillages and Intentional Communities by Diana Leafe Christian.
- The Cohousing Handbook: Building a Place for Community by Chris and Kelly ScottHanson.
Summary
Intentional communities represent a significant evolution in residential living, combining the benefits of shared resources, strong social networks, and common goals. They continue to evolve, providing innovative solutions to modern challenges such as sustainability and social isolation.
