Thursday, March 29, 2007

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?

2 comments:

Veda said...

I would have to say the Govenor General of Canada - Michaelle Jean is taking a strong lead in Canada with creating a nation-wide conscious community -- and I would not be surprised to see her take it to a global level. She rocked our world here in Nova Scotia and the ripples of her work are lapping on many shores. She has created a powerful platform for us to "meet" and participate in a number of forums. Have look for yourself...
http://www.citizenvoices.gg.ca/en/

Unknown said...

To be conscious that you are ignorant of the facts is a great step to knowledge. See the link below for more info.

#conscious
www.ufgop.org