How We Define Community: A Collection
As we continue the discussion and conversation around community, we realize that in order to redefine community, we must begin by exploring the myriad of definitions which already exist. This will allow us to form a baseline from which we can collectively discuss how the term has evolved and what, if any, further evolution is needed.
As you will see, defining community is not as simple as one might initially think . In this piece, we have drawn together various definitions from a multitude of experienced sources. All of these definitions are ones which have resonated with us and encouraged us to look further into the concept of community. We begin with
Merriam-Webster (condensed):
- a unified body of individuals, such as
a : the people with common interests living in a particular area
b :an interacting population of various kinds of individuals in a common location
c :a group of people with a common characteristic or interest
d :a group linked by a common policy
e :a body of persons having a common history, or social, economic and political interests
2. joint ownership or participation
a :common character or likeness
