Intentional Community

Intentional Community Definition

An intentional community refers to artificial groups or environments deliberately established for a specific purpose, distinguishing them from conventionally understood communities which are typically naturally occurring and all-encompassing in their scope. These settings represent an environment where individuals live out every facet of their lives within a defined structure. Examples include monastic settings, residential drug rehabilitation centres, and military training camps.

Distinction from Conventional Associations

The term is necessary to differentiate intentional communities from voluntary associations, such as political parties. While both involve groups of people, the key distinction lies in the creation process and immersion. A voluntary association involves an agreement or choice made by individuals, whereas an intentional community implies a deliberate construction of a shared environment that dictates the lived experience of its members.

Immersive Environment

Intentional communities are characterised by being immersive environments where the structure itself shapes the daily existence of its inhabitants. This immersion means that participation is not merely an affiliation but an embedded lifestyle within the established framework, which contrasts with the more voluntary or contractual nature of conventional associations.