Approaching a Definition of "Conscious" Communities

Steve Woodall of Cherokee Nation asked me what I meant by "conscious" communities. His question was timely and made me think. Here is what I said to Steve:

I am working in the direction of a definition of conscious communities. I am hoping to find a way to “measure” the consciousness of communities. I’m trying to get at what the tag line says: Creating Places of Heightened Awareness and Expression. Right now, I would say conscious communities are communities that:

• Cultivate the consciousness of their citizens and encourage heightened awareness and expression by their citizens.
• Exhibit a sense of meaning and purpose that permeates the community in various ways.
• Are reflective of the values and culture of their citizens.
• Are responsive to the fundamental human needs of their citizens.
• Are environmentally sound or sustainable.
• Foster and support the financial and economic prosperity of their citizens.
• Are civically engaged and aware.
• Encourage and foster sound democratic and effective community leadership/stewardship.
• Are accountable to their citizens.
• Plan ahead and make investments in community building
• Encourage and support the learning and education of their citizens.
• Encourage and support the spiritual growth of their citizens.
• Encourage and support the physical health of their citizens.
• Encourage and support the happiness and psychological well-being of their citizens.
• Encourage and support the growth of creativity in their citizens.
• Encourage the building of social networks and relationships supporting their citizens.

To my new readers, I would ask: What does "conscious" community mean to you?