Community is a word derived from “commune,” which means a specific geographical area in which a group of people, not all of one family, reside and share property and responsibility.
Definitions of Community
- A large number of people living in a geographical area who have the same problems and depend on one another and try to find a practical solution to their problems are known as a community.
- A community is a group of individuals residing in a relatively connected geographic area who share common traits in their way of life, including customs, traditions, and a general mode of communication.
- Ogburn & Nimkof defined community as the “total organization of social life in a limited area.”
- Arthur Dunham defined community as “a group of people who live in a thickly populated area and show their common and share life through/by their customs, traditions, and way of conversation.”
- “A large number of people living together within a given geographical area, sharing a common way of life in such a way that they meet most of their basic needs and problems from local resources.”
Characteristics of Community
- It is the smallest or largest group of people in which an individual has a relationship.
- Community refers to a large group of people who share a common set of attitudes, ideas, habits, and consider themselves a social unit. Sometimes, only a few individuals can also form a community.
- It is a group of people associated together for some common purpose.
- It is a system of using a procedure of authority that will mutually aid many groups.
Characteristics of a Good Community
A good community meets the needs of the people. Sociology deals with social relationships, human behaviors in groups, and the processes that shape these relations, so a good community deals with human and social relationships.
The people of a particular community have certain manners, customs, and traditions. They share common interests and functions and totally depend upon one another for solutions to their problems.
Here are some fundamental characteristics that define a good community:
Inclusiveness, Commitment, and Consensus
Members wholeheartedly accept and recognize each other, acknowledging their unique differences. They commit themselves to the effort and the people involved. They discuss and reconcile their differences through consensus.
Realism
Members bring together multiple perspectives to understand the whole context of the situation better. Discussions are more well-rounded and humble rather than one-sided and arrogant.
Reflection
Members take the time to reflect and evaluate themselves. They possess a deep understanding of both the external world and their internal world, recognizing the intricate connection between the two.
A Safe Space
Members create an environment where others can avoid vulnerability, find healing, and freely express their true self.
A Space for Personal Growth
Members engage in practical experiences to learn the principles of peacemaking and embrace its positive qualities. They demonstrate a deep sense of empathy and treat one another with utmost dignity, recognizing their shared humanity.
Adjustment of Conflicts
Members resolve disagreements in a thoughtful and respectful manner. They actively listen, empathize, and show mutual respect for one another’s strengths and weaknesses. They embrace their unique qualities, strengthen their connections, and work together to overcome challenges.
A group of all leaders
Members join the “flow of leadership” to discuss issues and set a course of action. The spirit of community leads any single individual.
Characteristics of Developed Communities
High Rate of Literacy
People are literate in developed communities. They are concerned with education, so a high rate of literacy exists in these communities.
Social Economic Reform
Socioeconomic reforms are commonly found in these communities. People are socially improved and economically benefited. They can enjoy all the advanced facilities and opportunities of life.
High Rate of Per Capita
Per capita income is high in developed communities due to the variety of life opportunities available.
Effective Leadership
Leadership plays a significant role in the overall development of communities. Effective leadership is found in developed communities. They work for the development of all sections of life. Every effort the leader makes to achieve the desire ends with sincerity and devotion.
Availability of Advanced Infrastructure
Advancement in infrastructure is one of the common characteristics of developed communities. Roads, sewerage, lights, etc., are properly managed.
Use of Modern Techniques
Modern techniques can be seen in the agriculture, health, and industry sectors.
