The Dream of a Community-Centered Life: Realities and Idealisms
The underlying question of whether humans would thrive without money and jobs if they lived in a more community-centered lifestyle is a compelling one. Throughout history, various societies have experimented with communal living, often with mixed results. In modern times, the balance between individual freedom and collective well-being remains a complex and evolving paradigm.
Historical Context: Tribal Societies and Agrarian Communities
Historical records indicate that tribal societies, such as those with life expectancies around 30 years, have existed. These communities, while symbiotic and interconnected in their daily lives, often faced significant challenges. The idea of recreating such a life today might seem alluring, especially in the context of a world heavily influenced by rapid technological and social changes. However, it is crucial to evaluate whether such a return to pre-technological life would be desirable or functional.
Advancements in Modern Society
Modern advancements, such as medical care, agricultural techniques, and social systems, have been made possible through the collective efforts of large societies. Innovations in healthcare, for instance, have dramatically lowered infant mortality rates and extended life expectancy. The concept of money as a neutral bartering system has facilitated the exchange of goods and services, leading to a more efficient and stable society. Without the support of money and jobs, many modern comforts and necessities would be unaffordable or even impossible to achieve.
Key advancements such as health systems, universities, social hygiene (such as the invention of modern plumbing and sewage systems), and improved medical care have been fundamental in saving lives and preventing disease. These modern systems have made it possible for societies to manage overpopulation and improve living conditions, something that would be challenging in a purely agrarian, community-centered lifestyle.
Personal Experiences in Intentional Communities
It is true that some modern intentional communities exist where members share lives, time, and resources. In these settings, people often collaborate on various tasks and support each other. However, the notion that these communities operate without money and jobs is a misconception. For instance, an individual would need fuel for a car, a cell phone for communication, and internet access for various functions. Even something as basic as soy sauce, which is not typically homegrown, would require the exchange of resources, often facilitated by money.
While some community members may produce their own food or have alternative means to fulfill these needs, such self-sufficiency is not always possible or practical. In most cases, some form of labor and monetary compensation is necessary to sustain these communities. For example, repairs, maintenance, and other services often require remuneration, much like traditional jobs.
Battle Against Instinctual Nature
A significant challenge in community-centered living is overcoming inherent human instincts such as greed, possessiveness, and selfishness. Humans are often driven by survival instincts and the need for personal security. While some individuals do manage to rise above their baser instincts and become more empathetic and altruistic, others remain more primal in nature. This duality within human beings makes it difficult to implement and sustain a fully community-centered lifestyle free from the need for money and jobs.
The Role of Governments and Institutions
Ultimately, the reality of modern society is that governments and institutions play a crucial role in mediating and supporting the needs of their citizens. While some humans may indeed act in self-serving or harmful ways, the existence of organized systems helps regulate and mitigate these behaviors. Laws, regulations, and social programs aim to protect the vulnerable and maintain order within society. Without such structures, the chaos and exploitation that occur in various parts of the world could be even more pronounced.
Additionally, as society continues to evolve, the need for community-centered lifestyles may also adapt. Advances in technology and social structure could potentially create more equitable and sustainable communities that balance the needs of individuals with the collective good.
In conclusion, while the dream of a community-centered life is noble and appealing, it presents numerous challenges that must be addressed. The intertwined realities of money and jobs, along with the complex nature of human instincts, make it difficult to achieve a purely community-centered existence without relying on these aspects of modern society.
Further Reading and Reflection
To delve deeper into this topic, I recommend reading George Orwell's Animal Farm. This novel provides a poignant critique of power dynamics and animalistic behavior within society. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of striving for ethical governance and mutual respect in communal living.
Thank you for your thought-provoking question. Your idealism acts as a valuable reminder of the potential for a more interconnected and harmonious world.