The concept of community in its many forms has been in existence for centuries. From tribal bonds to online social networks, feelings of community have given people a sense of belonging. Yet, community is a changing concept and some claim this is weakening. This essay will explore why this might be and what effects it may cause.
Overwhelmingly, variance in feelings of community spirit are related to how an individual relates to the community surrounding them, as well as their sense of self. Firstly, lack of shared characteristics may mean that people do not bond with the community they are in. As communities become more diverse, in for example language or values. then people may feel different to the group. Then those particular individuals may become isolated and in turn shun the wider community. Secondly, the reduction in community spirit may just be caused by an increase in selfishness. Perhaps more people want to focus only on themselves or their families but have little or no desire to help others.
The effects of a reduction in community spirit may be profound, however. Community has been a part of society for millennia, yet if some individuals decide not to take part in the community, this could lead to other people feeling resentful. Perhaps it could be argued that community is actually transforming rather than lessening and that a new form of pluralised community is developing; online, in peer groups, by modern cultural interests. However, a worst case scenario could be the fragmentation of local communities or groups.
In conclusion, community may be lessening in some areas and the effects of this could be wide-ranging, from a more pluralistic community sense to a disintegration of some local physical communities.