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.