INTENTIONAL COMMUNITY Meaning and
Definition
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An intentional community refers to a distinct form of human organization characterized by a deliberate decision of individuals to come together and live collectively according to a set of shared values, principles, and goals. These communities are typically formed with the primary intention of creating an alternative living arrangement, different from mainstream society, where residents actively participate in decision-making, resource-sharing, and social interaction.
Intentional communities often gravitate towards specific interests, such as sustainable living, spirituality, or social justice. They can take various physical forms, including urban cohousing projects, eco-villages, communes, or rural agricultural communities. What sets intentional communities apart from other social structures is the underlying intention and conscious effort to create an environment that fosters connection, cooperation, and stronger sense of community.
In intentional communities, members often prioritize communal values over individual desires, emphasizing the importance of collective well-being, ecological sustainability, and egalitarianism. Decision-making processes range from consensus-based models to hierarchical systems, depending on the community's structure and size. Additionally, intentional communities may have common spaces, shared responsibilities, and economic arrangements, which can vary from self-sufficiency to cooperative efforts.
These intentional communities serve as havens for individuals seeking an alternative lifestyle that emphasizes community bonds, cooperation, and living in harmony with nature. They provide an opportunity for like-minded individuals to support and challenge one another while striving towards a shared vision. By intentionally creating an inclusive and purposeful living environment, intentional communities aim to challenge social norms, foster personal growth, and promote a more sustainable way of life.
Etymology of INTENTIONAL COMMUNITY
The word "intentional community" does not have a specific etymology, as it is a compound term formed by combining two separate words.
The term "intentional" comes from the Latin word "intentionem", meaning "purpose" or "stretching". It refers to something that is done with intention, willfully, or deliberately.
The word "community" has its roots in the Latin word "communitas", which means "fellowship" or "shared in common". It generally refers to a group of individuals living together and sharing common interests, values, or goals.
When these two words are combined, "intentional community" refers to a deliberate and purposeful group of people who come together to live in a shared environment based on specific principles, values, or objectives. These communities are often created with the intention of promoting sustainable living, collective decision-making, or alternative lifestyles.
