The Illusion of Community: Real vs. Metaphorical

 

By Martin R. Kalfatovic - https://blog.biodiversitylibrary.org/2021/05/2021-bhl-annual-meeting.html, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=110979841

In our previous post, we explored the erosion of traditional communities in American society and the rise of online communities as a substitute. However, it’s important to distinguish between the metaphorical communities we find online and the real communities that exist in the physical world.

Real Communities: Shared Proximity, Shared Interests

Real communities are rooted in shared proximity. People who live in the same neighborhood, attend the same school, or work at the same company are more likely to develop a sense of community because of their shared experiences and interests. These shared interests often arise as a byproduct of living or working together. For example, parents in a neighborhood might bond over their children’s activities, while coworkers might form friendships based on shared hobbies or professional goals.

Metaphorical Communities: Shared Interests, Shared Space

Metaphorical communities, on the other hand, are primarily defined by shared interests. Online forums, social media groups, and fan communities bring together people from all over the world who have a common passion or hobby. While these communities can provide a sense of belonging and connection, they are fundamentally different from real-world communities. The shared space is virtual, and the interactions are often limited to text or digital avatars.

Communities Are Not About Harmony

It’s important to remember that communities are not about everyone joining together in perfect harmony. In fact, communities often involve conflict and disagreement. What truly defines a community is the shared commitment to achieving common goals, even if there are differences of opinion or perspective.

The Role of Media and Urban Development

The decline of real-world communities has been exacerbated by a number of factors, including the influence of media and urban development. Since the end of World War II, media has increasingly emphasized individualism and consumerism, eroding traditional values and social connections. Meanwhile, urban development has led to the fragmentation of communities and the decline of public spaces where people can gather and interact.

While the rise of online communities has certainly contributed to this trend, it is important to recognize that these changes were already underway. The internet has simply provided a new avenue for people to connect and find a sense of belonging, but it has not created the underlying conditions that have led to the erosion of real-world communities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while online communities can offer a sense of connection and belonging, they cannot fully replace the experience of living in a real-world community. To foster a more vibrant and resilient society, we must prioritize the creation and preservation of real-world communities that are based on shared proximity, shared interests, and a commitment to common goals.

The Erosion of American Communities: The Role of Media and Exurbanization

 

By Pawel Loj - Flickr: little five points, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=17629107

The 1960s witnessed a surge of social and political movements, many of which were centered in university communities. These movements demonstrated the power of communities to come together and advocate for their interests. However, in the decades since, American communities have experienced a significant decline, leading to a widespread confusion about the very meaning of community itself.

The Rise of Online Communities

One of the most notable changes in American society over the past few decades has been the rise of online communities. While these virtual spaces can provide opportunities for connection and social interaction, they cannot fully replace the value of face-to-face relationships and shared experiences. The blurring of the lines between online and offline communities can contribute to a sense of isolation and disengagement.

The Impact of Exurbanization

The exurbanization of American cities has also played a significant role in the erosion of communities. As people have moved away from urban centers in search of larger homes and more affordable living, they have become more isolated from their neighbors and less connected to the broader community. This shift has weakened the social fabric of many American cities and towns.

The Role of Media

Media has played a complex role in the erosion of American communities. While media can connect people and facilitate communication, it can also contribute to a sense of isolation and individualism. The rise of social media has created new opportunities for connection, but it has also led to the fragmentation of public discourse and the formation of echo chambers.

Conclusion

The decline of American communities is a multifaceted issue with no easy solutions. To revitalize our communities, we must address the underlying factors that have contributed to their erosion, including the rise of online communities, exurbanization, and the changing role of media. By fostering a sense of belonging, encouraging civic engagement, and promoting face-to-face interaction, we can rebuild the social fabric of our communities and create a more vibrant and resilient society.

The New Urbanism Movement: A Critical Analysis

 

The New Urbanism movement has gained significant attention in recent years for its efforts to promote more walkable, sustainable, and vibrant urban environments. By advocating for mixed-use development, denser housing, and better public transportation, New Urbanists have challenged the car-centric sprawl that characterized many American cities in the latter half of the 20th century.

However, while the New Urbanism movement deserves praise for its contributions to urban planning, it is essential to apply a critical eye to its solutions and the underlying economic assumptions that inform them.

The Challenge of Replicating Traditional American Towns

One of the key goals of the New Urbanism movement is to create artificial replicas of traditional American towns. While this approach can be appealing, it is important to recognize that the economic and social conditions that shaped these towns are no longer present. Attempting to recreate the past without addressing the underlying economic factors can lead to unsustainable and artificial developments.

The Lack of an Economic Underpinning

The New Urbanism movement often focuses on creating a desirable physical environment without fully considering the economic factors that are essential for the long-term viability of a community. For example, while walkable streets and mixed-use development can be attractive features, they may not be economically sustainable if there is insufficient demand for housing, retail, or commercial space.

A More Holistic Approach

To create truly sustainable and vibrant urban environments, it is essential to adopt a more holistic approach that considers the economic, social, and environmental factors that shape cities. This includes:

• Economic Development: Promoting economic growth and job creation to support the local economy.
• Affordable Housing: Ensuring that housing is affordable for a diverse range of residents.
• Public Transportation: Investing in robust public transportation systems to reduce reliance on cars.
• Community Engagement: Involving residents in the planning and development process.

Conclusion

The New Urbanism movement has made valuable contributions to urban planning, but it is essential to approach its solutions with a critical eye. By considering the economic factors that shape cities and adopting a more holistic approach, we can create sustainable and vibrant urban environments that benefit all residents.